The West Ham United Foundation has officially launched 'Hammers for Hope', a powerful new initiative aimed at supporting homeless adults in east London. Designed to offer a pathway towards long-term independence, the programme combines tailored physical activity sessions with employability support and wellbeing resources.
The programme is being delivered in partnership with Your Place, a local charity committed to solving homelessness 'one person at a time'. By working collaboratively, the Foundation and Your Place are creating a safe and supportive environment where residents can rebuild confidence, develop new skills and ultimately take steps towards stability and self-sufficiency.
The first six weeks of the programme are being delivered directly at Your Place, allowing participants to engage in familiar surroundings before eventually transitioning to the Foundation’s new community Hub in Beckton, set to open in June. The programme offers high-quality sessions and meaningful experiences, going far beyond football.
Importantly, Hammers for Hope has been made possible thanks to vital funding and support from both the Premier League and the Professional Footballers’ Association. The initial concept of the project was developed in consultation with men’s and women’s first-team players, and the project focus was shaped by both the needs of the local community and issues of which the players are passionate about.
Premier League Director of Community, Nick Perchard, said: “The Players’ Project Pilot is a powerful initiative that places players at the heart of community work, allowing them to use their influence to make a real difference.
“By combining players’ passions with the proven delivery of professional football club charities, this funding will respond to local need and create meaningful impact that extends far beyond the pitch.”
Professional Footballers’ Association Chief Executive, Maheta Molango, said: “Supporting the work that our members do in their communities has always been a priority for the PFA and I’ve personally enjoyed seeing the impact that they have and the way they use their platform.
“I know from conversations with players that they want to use their position to highlight work in their communities that really matters to them and where they feel that personal connection.
“We’ve been keen to give them opportunities to do that, and the Players’ Project Pilot is an excellent way of growing that connection between our members and the work they do off the pitch.”
Already, the initiative has welcomed visits from members of West Ham’s men’s and women’s first teams. Defender Aaron Cresswell, striker Danny Ings and Canada international Shelina Zadorsky have all spent time with residents, showing the power of connection between Club and community.
“It’s been great for me and Danny to meet some of the residents here,” said Cresswell. “The project and the work that they do is inspiring. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the residents and just engaging with them about their experiences and what they’re going through, it’s incredible.”
Zadorsky echoed that sentiment, emphasising the broader role footballers can play in society. She said: “Having shelter is a basic human need. I think that's why places like Your Place are so imperative, to help people who need to get back on their feet or need a safe place.”
A strong believer in community engagement, Zadorsky highlighted how projects like this ground her beyond the pitch. She continued: “I love being a footballer, but I'm also a people person. I love to meet people who are from here and learn about their stories. West Ham’s been such a family to me, and I knew I wanted to get more involved with the Foundation by having opportunities like these to spend time with people in the east London community.”
The launch of Hammers for Hope reflects West Ham United’s enduring commitment to tackling social inequality and delivering community-driven solutions to some of the capital’s most pressing challenges.
Jesse Foyle, Director of Programmes at the West Ham United Foundation, suggests the impact goes well beyond short-term relief. Foyle said: “Homelessness is a huge issue across London, and Newham specifically has some of the highest homeless rates in the country. It’s an issue that the players care passionately about and we’re committed to offering support to those who need it most.
“Our relationship with Your Place has developed over several years, from activities at London Stadium to player visits and donations of essential items and much more. With the backing of the Premier League and the Professional Footballers’ Association, and the players, we were excited to work alongside Your Place to co-create this new initiative.
“Hammers for Hope is about more than short-term support. It’s about restoring independence, building trust and helping people rediscover their potential through a structured programme that meets both physical and emotional needs. We’re proud to be working alongside Your Place to deliver something that can genuinely change lives.”
