Blues brighten December with hospital visits

For our squads, a visit, organised by Chelsea Foundation, to a local hospital to hand out gifts and meet with those who are unfortunately on a ward and away from home at this time of year is as traditional as Christmas food and decorations.

As 2024 draws to a close, the smiles that have been on the pitch recently as both Sonia Bompastor’s and Enzo Maresca’s sides gathered up good results were on display again during time spent at Kingston Hospital and Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

As well as handing out Chelsea-themed gifts, time was taken to talk with young patients and their families with plenty of selfies snapped. A selection of photos can be viewed in the galleries below.

Chelsea Academy players also visited a hospital not far from Cobham and they were joined by Blues legend John Terry during their time spent meeting patients.

Kingston Hospital is close to Chelsea Women’s main home stadium of Kingsmeadow and that was the destination for the reigning WSL champions shortly before they headed off to Spain to complete their Champions League group stage.

The players, accompanied by mascots Stamford and Bridget, delivered specially prepared Christmas goodie bags to the young patients on Sunshine and Dolphin wards. They helped them engage in some fun and interactive games as part of the visit.

‘It is such a joy for us to come and spend time with the children here, especially if we can put a little smile on their faces although to be honest, I think they put smiles on our faces more,’ said goalkeeper Hannah Hampton.

‘We cherish every single moment we can give back to the community so to come here is such a privilege for us.’

The Chelsea and Westminster Hospital where the men’s team went is just along the Fulham Road from Stamford Bridge and is familiar to many fans who walk that way on matchdays.

Inside it during the players’ visit to the children’s wards, one young Blue definitely brought a touch of the Bridge to the hospital when he replicated Cole Palmer’s goal celebration.

Club captain Reece James said: ‘We know it can be a difficult time for families who have loved ones and young children in hospital, especially at this time of year.

‘The whole squad were keen to play their part in putting some smiles on faces and spreading some festive cheer while also saying thank you to the wonderful nurses, doctors and hospital staff.’

Chelsea Under-21s along with JT visited Epsom Hospital, wishing the patients there a Merry Christmas and interacting with them throughout the afternoon.

The players handed out presents to the children and also prepared hampers for the hospital staff, which they could open on Christmas Day.

Striker Donnell McNeilly reflected: ‘It was an eye-opening experience. Meeting new people and giving back to those who are unable to spend the holiday at home was truly rewarding. It was a wonderful opportunity to bring together individuals who might not normally cross paths.

‘I really enjoyed myself and found it inspiring to see the other boys actively participating, generously giving their time to help and support others.’

In addition to the Under-21s’ hospital visit, Chelsea’s Under-18s partnered with Renstart, a local charity supporting homelessness in Elmbridge, the borough in Surrey that is home to the Academy. To assist people during the festive season, they provided essential living supplies.

A handful of Chelsea’s first-year scholars created the hampers and also travelled around Elmbridge to distribute them to clients. They knocked on the doors, had conversations and wished them a Merry Christmas. The hampers included toiletries, washing detergent, canned food, sweet Christmas treats as well as being targeted for specific clients.

Young defender Joseph Wheeler-Henry reflected on the experience: ’It was a good opportunity to help others. I enjoyed the afternoon of giving back to the community.’