How CFFC Members Are Changing Lives for Local Children 

Thanks to your CFFC membership, many children – some of whom would not have had the chance otherwise, are enjoying Saturday morning squash sessions at Old Crossleyans Squash Club in Halifax. 

For many, this is their first chance to be part of a sports club, and it’s giving them a much-needed space to learn, grow, and simply enjoy themselves. A group of children and young people now have the chance to play squash while making new friends and experience the joy of belonging to a club. 

These sessions are about so much more than learning to hit a ball. They’ve opened the doors to children who wouldn’t easily have the opportunity to try squash, let alone access professional coaching. It’s important to CFFC that we can support children in our community with equity of opportunity. A grant awarded to Calder Community Squash, funded from CFFC membership, removed the financial barriers, giving these young people a safe, supportive space to have fun and grow. 

One of the most heart-warming transformations has been that of G. He first came along after trying squash during the club’s Healthy Holidays Calderdale programme. At first, G seemed shy and uneasy in group settings. But with patience, and a welcoming environment, something clicked. Week by week, he kept coming back, gaining confidence and skills. 

Fast forward a few months, and G is not just a keen squash player—he’s thriving. He’s joined a junior team, is preparing for his first away match, and even helps out during holiday camps, showing younger kids how to play. Squash has become more than a hobby for G; it’s a passion that’s brought out the best in him. 

The funding has also meant the club could bring in an extra coach, allowing them to split the sessions into groups for younger children and more advanced players. This made it possible to reach even more children, giving each one the attention they needed to learn and grow. The impact stretches far beyond the court. Kids are getting active and feel part of something special, which helps to build connections with their peers. 

Parents and volunteers have been involved, too. The grant helped cover DBS checks for local parents keen to lend a hand, giving them the chance to gain new skills while supporting the sessions. The ripple effects have been remarkable, with entire families getting involved in the club and attending events. It is lovely to see people enjoying the social side of sport together. 

This programme is about changing lives in big and small ways—helping kids stay active while boosting their mental well-being. And we don’t doubt these sessions, funded by you, will be giving them memories that will last a lifetime. 

This has been made possible by the generosity of CFFC Members, and for the children of Calderdale, it’s more than just a game—it’s a chance to build strong foundations, both on and off the court.