Once again with the holidays just around the corner, Bethlehem Steel FC has teamed up with New Bethany Ministries to collect Christmas gift donations for children throughout the Lehigh Valley. The donation drive will begin on Friday, Dec. 1 and run through Dec. 18.

After tremendous community support in last year’s donation drive that focused on soccer, Steel FC has expanded the drive in 2017 to include toys, school supplies and soccer gear. The expansion of the drive was due in part to the USL club wanting to bring the holiday spirit to as many children in the region as possible.

Soccer supplies requested include new or gently used soccer equipment including cleats, balls, shin guards, gloves among other items. Fans wishing to donate toys are encouraged to do so as well, with both organizations asking that toy donations be limited to $25 and to include batteries if a toy requires them.

“It was great to see not only our soccer community but the region as a whole come together and help with our donation drive last year,” Steel FC Managing Director of Business Operations Scott Evans said. “Bethlehem Steel FC is dedicated to giving back to the community in which we live and work and we’re honored to partner with New Bethany Ministries to bring smiles this holiday season to as many kids across the Lehigh Valley as we can.”

New Bethany Ministries is an interfaith, non-profit organization with its main location in Southside Bethlehem. New Bethany Ministries mobilizes community partnerships, relies heavily on volunteers, and practices sound fiscal stewardship to impact almost 7,000 people annually.

The organization is home to many in need throughout the Valley, with additional sites in Bethlehem, Allentown, and Coplay allow the organization to magnify its Valley-wide impact. New Bethany Ministries provides food support, hygiene support, wellness programming, transitional housing, permanent affordable housing, and financial case management to individuals and families who are working toward self-sufficiency.

The main drop off point for donations will be at Steel FC’s main office currently located at 44 East Broad Street, Suite 135 in Bethlehem normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.). Fans may also drop off their donations at New Bethany Ministries located at 339 W. 4th Street in Bethlehem as well.

Supporters of the donation drive will be given two flex vouchers good for any 2018 home match upon donating their items valued at least $10. Along with the tickets, each donation will be entered to win a Bethlehem Steel Swag Bag, with the winner chosen at random on Dec. 18.