Bear hugs from Berni and a variety of presents under the tree in the colours of FC Bayern: Christmas came early for children from Pfennigparade's inclusive facilities and their carers during a visit to Säbener Straße. Michael Diederich, deputy CEO of the German record champions, presented the gifts, which were collected through the annual fundraising campaign organised by the employees and team. "It's an important and wonderful tradition for us that our colleagues and players give presents to Pfennigparade to bring a little joy to children," Diederich said. "It's always great to see how their eyes light up when they meet Berni here on Säbener Straße."
Over 100 wish lists
Diederich high-fived the children from Ernst Barlach School and PHOENIX Kita Berni, and joked with them about the FCB mascot's impressive belly: "He must have eaten a lot of gingerbread during Advent." He then helped the boys and girls to put on their rucksacks - labelled ‘title holder’, they proudly made their way back to the other children in the inclusive facilities who had received presents from the German record champions this year. Over 100 wish lists had been hung on the Christmas trees in the staff canteens on Säbener Straße and at the FC Bayern Campus, with people choosing slips and fulfilling their wishes. From balls and a guitar set to an outdoor kitchen, everything was included, as well as favourite books from childhood.
Not just for Christmas
FC Bayern's links to the Pfennigparade are more than just this Christmas project. The club cooperates in areas such as digital accessibility, easy language and inclusive internships. Years ago, a donation from FC Bayern Hilfe eV was used to support the ‘Die Insel’ foundation's sports ground. Since Pfennigparade was founded in the early 1950s as a citizens' movement to combat the polio epidemic, it has supported people with physical disabilities and other impairments - now in all phases of life and in all walks of life. The main goals are inclusion and social participation of people with disabilities, supporting them in achieving the best possible quality of life in a self-determined way.
"This is simply a great project by FC Bayern," said Thomas Heymel, head of corporate development at Pfennigparade, "FC Bayern is extremely committed to social causes and doesn't just support us. This club simply sees people, that's what characterises it, and that goes down well with people." At the end, there was a group photo in which Diederich playfully set the tone: "Everyone says spaghetti!" The smiles remained on the children's faces as they said goodbye at Säbener Straße.
In November, FC Bayern handed over a donation of €30,000 to the DKMS:
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