Ex England and Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand has proved that not all footballers are selfish, brash and money grabbers. The kindhearted former defender who has three children has kindly donated an incredible £500,000 worth of toys for under privileged youngsters living in the city of Manchester.
The amazing donation to Key 103’s Cash for Kids charity was made by the 38-year-old on behalf of himself and his restaurant Rosso, earlier this week and the generous ex ace has now announced he will also be donating 11,500 sleeping bags to the homeless this winter.
Talking about his wonderful donation to the Cash for Kids charity the dad of three said:
“As a father myself I couldn’t see children going without opening a present this Christmas Day – the work that Cash For Kids at Key 103 do is truly amazing.
“I’m glad that my restaurant Rosso and I can be involved in this and certainly help put a smile on locals kids’ faces this Christmas Day.”
Key 103 host Mike Toolan became aware of Rio Ferdinand’s wonderful donation after seeing a tweet by him;
Me & @RossoRestaurant are doing our bit this Xmas for #missionchristmas @CFKKEY103 with @KEY103 come on get involved Manchester!
— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) December 15, 2016
After seeing the tweet Mike rang Rio to find out more, and the former Centre Back told him;
“Me and the guys at Rosso have seen what’s been going on in the city, and with obviously it being Christmas we know there are a lot of people less fortunate than we are so we’ve decided to donate £500,000 worth of toys and gifts. But Manchester has got to get behind what we are doing, everyone can get involved and donate what they can.”
Mike said: “HALF A MILLION POUNDS? Rio I love you! Rio you’ve always done loads of good stuff for the city, you have changed so many lives in Manchester.”
But kind Rio said: “We’re not looking for a thank you, we’re just trying to help people out.”
Mike said: “I tell you what, one day you’re going to get some special attention from that big guy.”
The charity is still looking for more donations, to find out how you can get involved make sure you visit the official website.
What do you think of Rio Ferdinand’s generosity? Let us know your thoughts over on Twitter @CelebMix.