Parma, December 12, 2024 – A Parma Calcio tradition involving young fans who are going through a difficult time but for whom Christmas represents joy and hope. This morning, the Men’s First Team and some players from the Women’s First Team were joined by Coach Fabio Pecchia, Team Manager Alessio Cracolici, CSR Manager Giuseppe Squarcia, Parma Calcio Women Sporting Director Domenico Aurelio and Managing Director Corporate Luca Martines in visiting the Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital. Now a tradition, the visit took place a day before the Feast of Saint Lucy (13 December) and ahead of 16 December, the anniversary of Parma Calcio's founding. Just like every year, it also provided an opportunity for the Club to deliver Christmas gifts to the young patients.

After usual meeting nursing staff and employees, the players were divided into two groups, each of which took the gifts directly to the wards, putting smiles on the faces of the young Gialloblu fans. The entire visit was made possible thanks to the support of the nursing coordinators and healthcare staff, all of whom were visibly moved. “It’s once again a great pleasure to be here at the Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital to bring some joy and support to the children, who are happy to see their football heroes, and to the healthcare staff, who do some crucial work. Events like this, where we spend time with the children, are good for the heart. We are all parents and have children, younger brothers and sisters, and all of us at Parma Calcio feel a strong sense of closeness and empathy with those who, at this stage in life, are experiencing difficulties,” said Luca Martines, Managing Director Corporate of the Club.

“Once again this year, Parma Calcio wanted to show the affection that binds the Club to our paediatric facility. They bring a wonderful message, merging the value of sport and engagement with solidarity. On behalf of all the staff at the Children’s Hospital and our patients, I sincerely thank Parma Calcio. Our patients always greatly appreciate the gifts and gadgets they’re given by Parma Calcio, especially when they’re delivered by the players from both the Men’s and Women’s First Teams,” said Medical Director Sandra Rossi.

Club partner Crédit Agricole Italia also took part, donating gifts and involving a group of executives and employees in this social responsibility initiative.