The VCF Foundation's annual 'Métele un gol a la pobreza' campaign celebrated its 16th edition this Christmas, and collected over 15,000 toys that will be distributed in the coming days.

VCF Mestalla players also participated in the campaign as part of the #AcademiaEnComunidad project, collaborating on one of the donation days that took place in the Nuevo Centro shopping centre. There they had the opportunity to deposit toys into the collection box and thank all the children and relatives who came to deliver their own gifts.

“It is a pleasure for all of us VCF Mestalla players to participate. It is important that, after a year that has been so tough, children can receive gifts,” explained Adri Gómez, one of the captains of the team.

“It is something that excites young children. If this type of event can help those who unfortunately do not have all that they would like, and get a smile from them, then that's great. If it's a gift from Valencia CF, then even better." added Marc Ferris.

This edition of the campaign takes on additional importance due to the global health crisis and the economic difficulties it has caused many families. What has not changed is the response, says Pablo Mantilla, director of the VCF Foundation.

"We are delighted with the response from Valencianistas and the Valencian people, because we are achieving the goals that we always set for ourselves, collecting thousands of toys for people most in need."

The toys will be distributed this week to various groups: The Asociación Deporte por Educación de Nazaret, Asociación Mamás en Acción, Asociación Rumiñahui, Asociación AVEP and the Banco de Alimentos

In the case of the latter, the VCF Foundation will provide around 300 bags with footballs and toys. The Banco de Alimentos have used the facilities at Mestalla since last May to hand out food to those in need.