Free, festive event for tenants at Blundell Park, the home of Grimsby Town FC

We hosted a special, festive themed celebration for our tenants based in Grimsby on Tuesday December 10, designed to bring joy to families and build relationships.

The invitation only event took place at Blundell Park (the home of Grimsby FC), with over 50 people enjoying the range of fun activities on offer.

Included were meet and greets with players of the club (Justin Obikwu, George McEachran, Tyrell Warren and Jayden Luker) a photo booth, festive games, promotion of our services, food, refreshments and free gifts.

We took ownership of 841 homes in March 2024, a majority of which are based in North East Lincolnshire. We have since worked to strengthen the sense of community and promote the work they do to new tenants, above and beyond being a landlord.

From financial, employment, training and mental health support we also offer wellbeing projects and significant investment within communities.

Maryanne Fitzgerald Enterprise and Economic Social Value Manager, and event organiser said: “This is the first large scale event we’ve held for our tenants and customers in Grimsby, so we’re delighted with how successful it has been.

“We’ve engaged with a huge number of people and it has been fantastic to spread some festive cheer, whilst building those meaningful connections and making sure our customers feel valued, supported and listened to.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended and helped to make it such a success. This is the start of a very exciting partnership with Grimsby Town FC too, so please keep an eye out for that in the new year.”

Polly Bancroft, Chief Executive at Grimsby Town Football Club said: “We’re always looking for ways to bring joy both on and off the pitch, especially at this time of year, so it’s wonderful that we can play a part in this event.

“Our focus remains on the game, but we’re also mindful of our outreach efforts, especially with schools, the local community and our younger fans. It’s lovely to be here to meet so many people, and to work with organisations like Ongo.”

Amy, tenant said: “Ongo took over as our landlord not too long ago and I honestly can’t complain. This event has opened my eyes to how much they actually do.

“I cannot believe they do things like mental health support and help people to get jobs. I brought my mum and two boys, and we’ve had such a good time. We’ve been given free gifts, food and drinks, footy merchandise, met the players and loads of kind people from Ongo who want to help too.

“I’m so happy to be a tenant with them compared to my other experiences. I can’t thank them enough – they’re amazing!”

Payton, a young tenant said: “I’ve had the best time! Obikwu is my favourite player, I can believe I’ve just been in a photo booth with him and got to meet them all. Thank you so much.”

Ben Davies, Coach at Grimsby Town Football Club said: “Our club is built around a strong, hard-working town with passionate supporters. Connecting with them at events like this is so important and is something is encouraged from the highest level.

“The players live a sheltered life, with a strong focus on the game and so they love taking part when they can and feeling like they’re giving something back to the fans who give so much to them.”

George McEachran, who joined the Mariners ahead of the 2024-25 season commented: “It’s so important for us as players to make the effort to engage with our fans and give something back. They are what make the club.

“It shows togetherness, and we’re pleased we could come down today.”