The National Fostering Agency (NFA) have further developed their relationship with Hartlepool Borough Council by coming together to offer a two year sponsorship deal to the town's football club, Hartlepool United.
The deal will include sponsorship of the club'scentre of excellence teams.
Throughout the next two years the NFA logo will appear on all the Centre of Excellence teams' shirts and along with match day programme sponsorship and pitch side bill board advertising.
This partnership hopes to raise the profile of fostering and the urgent need for foster carers in theHartlepool area.
Julie Bannister NFA Regional Manager for the North said:
"Hartlepool United is a central part of the local community and we are glad to make this investment which will benefit many children and young people. We would like to reach out to the club's supporters and ask anyone with a passion for helping children who is interested in finding out more about fostering to contact us. Becoming a foster carer is a fulfilling profession that can offer many challenges and rewards. Our foster carers receive a fantastic support package, ongoing training and generous tax free allowance"
Iain Anderson, Chief Executive of the NFA said:
"I am delighted that NFA and Hartlepool Borough Council are working together in the community to support the Hartlepool centre of excellence teams. The outcomes for the children we look after are paramount and sport can play such an important role in encouraging young people to stay healthy"
Russ Green, Chief Executive of Hartlepool United FC said:
"Having worked closely with Hartlepool Borough Council Children's Services over the past few years it is fantastic that we are now enhancing our relationship by signing a new sponsorship deal with the NFA. We think that it is vital that the people of Hartlepool understand the tremendous job that the NFA do, not only in Hartlepool, but also nationally".
There is currently a shortage of around 1,700 foster carers in the North East. NFA are seeking foster carers for long term, short term and emergency fostering.
The NFA provide excellent, training, support and allowances. If you feel you could help change a child's life please contact the National Fostering Agency by calling 0845 2004040 or visit www.nfa.ws and register your interest.
