By Coventry Rugby 
The Coventry Rugby Foundation proudly delivered another impactful Project 500 initiative this Easter, supporting children and families across the local community during the school holidays -a time that can be especially challenging for some of our most vulnerable families.
Held on 15th April 2025 at Butts Park Arena, Project 500 once again brought people together to provide a safe and enjoyable environment during the school holidays as well as providing essential food packages. Thanks to the incredible generosity and support of the Rapid Relief Team (RRT), every child who attended went home with a comprehensive food parcel – a vital source of support during the break from school-provided meals.
RRT’s commitment to supporting communities in need was vital to maintaining Project 500’s continued success, helping ensure that no child leaves empty-handed and that families receive practical, meaningful assistance at a time when it’s most needed.
To add some Easter excitement, Coventry Rugby first-team player Josh Barton was on hand to distribute Easter Eggs, kindly donated by IM Properties and Warwickshire Freemasons much to the delight of the children.
The day also saw the support of Zarah Sultana, MP for Coventry South, who joined in distributing packages and meeting families.
Special thanks go to Charter Savings Bank, whose generous partnership on this initiative continues to play a vital role in enabling the Foundation’s work within the community.
Project 500 is a core initiative of the Coventry Rugby Foundation, designed to support some of our most vulnerable children and families during school holidays by offering not only food packages but also access to healthy recreational activities and community engagement. Its impact spans Coventry and the wider region, with a focus on those who may be facing barriers due to youth, disability, or financial hardship.
Speaking about the day, John Edwards, Chair of the Coventry Rugby Foundation, said:
“At the Coventry Rugby Foundation, our mission is about far more than sport – it’s about creating access, opportunity, and community. Project 500 embodies everything we stand for: supporting young people and families through healthy recreation, providing essential resources, and using sport as a tool for personal growth and inclusion. Whether it’s through physical activity or simply coming together in moments like these, we’re helping young people develop the confidence, skills, and resilience they need to thrive as individuals and future members of society.”
The Foundation remains committed to ensuring that everyone in the community – regardless of background or circumstance – has the opportunity to grow, connect, and thrive.
Coventry Rugby Foundation extends its deepest thanks to Rapid Relief Team, Charter Savings Bank, and all the volunteers, partners, and sponsors who made this year’s Easter edition of Project 500 a meaningful and memorable success.
To donate towards the Coventry Rugby Foundation please follow the link below:
To find out more about those supporting Project 500 see the below links:
