Richmond Football Club’s contribution for 2020 to its preferred charity partner, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, has reached $206,899.78.

The Foundation, which has partnered with the Club since 2012, is the leading national charity working to protect children from violence and bullying. Richmond has raised more than $1.2 million for the Alannah & Madeline Foundation.

Richmond CEO Brendon Gale said the Tiger Army should take enormous pride in the contribution.

“To see this amount raised during an incredibly difficult year is heart-warming,” he said.

“Our supporters are always behind this important partnership, which has provided so many children with much-needed support and protection, and this year is no exception.

“The work of the Foundation is critical. Our supporters know, just as we do, that nothing is more important than the safety of our children.”

Funds were raised across many different avenues, with the majority coming through the generosity of Richmond supporters that purchased Richmond/AMF memberships. The Club also donated 5% of all Richmond merchandise profits directly to the Foundation.

The Club’s Light the Darkness digital campaign this year focussed on supporting the Foundation’s work around the unspoken impact COVID-19 has had on Australian children.

As a result of restrictions and lockdowns across the country, there has been an increase in reports of first-time family violence and online abuse, meaning that vulnerable kids need our support now more than ever.

Richmond has helped support more than 96,000 youngsters through the partnership over the last eight years.

This includes contributing to the distribution of 75,000 Buddy Bags for vulnerable children in emergency accommodation and the support of more than 355 young people through the Children Ahead initiative, which helps young people aged up to 18 who are recovering from significant trauma or violence.

The Alannah & Madeline Foundation’s CEO Lesley Podesta said that the Club’s contributions helped to make an enormous difference in the lives of Australian children and was a testament to an enduring and important partnership.

“The Foundation has reached more than 2.5 million children through our care, prevention and advocacy programs over the past 23 years,” Ms Podesta said.

“It is because of partners like the Richmond Football Club and its members, supporter base and leadership that we can create a safer world for children. We are very grateful.”