John’s story

John Davidson is a regular at Warm Welcome, a free lunch club run by Big Hearts in the 1874 Fans Bar at Tynecastle Park. The Gorgie pensioner says the charity of Heart of Midlothian FC has been a “lifeline” to him. “I would be lost without it”.

Since 2021, charity offering hot food, activities and a welcoming space for people to connect, with no referral required. “Warm Welcome gives me somewhere to go where I feel comfortable and accepted. You can walk in, sit down, have a meal and talk to people without any pressure.”

The initiative was launched in 2021 to counter the cost of living crisis and reduce isolation among older members of the community. Warm Welcome is offering hot food, social activities and a welcoming space for people to connect, with no referral required. 

“For some of us, this might be the only real human contact we have that week. Being able to come here, have a laugh and feel part of something again makes a huge difference.” explained John.

With the 10th Big Hearts Day at the weekend, for Hearts v Falkirk, John calls on Hearts fans to get involved. 

“If people are able to donate on Big Hearts Day, they’re helping keep these spaces open for people who really need them.”

Big Hearts works year-round across the city, using football and Tynecastle Park as a gateway to connection and support. The charity delivers over 10+ projects for people of all ages, focused on improving outcomes around mental health, equality and social connections.

Funds raised on Big Hearts Day help ensure the Club charity can continue delivering these services free of charge.

Donate today to change more people’s lives through the Club charity Big Hearts. 

Thank you.