Former boxer Tommy Coyle is hosting his seventh annual school uniform giveaway event in Hull, aiming to support families facing financial strain. The initiative, organized through Coyle's sporting foundation, will distribute unbranded school uniforms of various sizes and colors free of charge.
The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday at Coyle's gym, TC60, on Humber Street, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM BST. Coyle stated that no questions will be asked of those attending the giveaway.
This year's event comes amid rising costs for essential items, with Coyle noting that school uniforms are particularly expensive. Last year, approximately 400 uniforms were provided to families, and he anticipates this number to increase annually. "It's such an expensive time of year. Everything is going up in price. Uniforms are a fortune this year," Coyle said.
Coyle, a former Commonwealth lightweight champion who retired from boxing in 2019, established his foundation to support underprivileged children. He has previously organized initiatives such as a mobile boxing gym. He emphasized his belief in giving back, stating, "If you're in a position to do good then I believe you should."
The motivation behind the giveaway is personal for Coyle. He recalled instances from his own school days where bullying occurred due to disparities in clothing brands. "I think everybody should be able to feel included at school whether they've got branded or unbranded uniform," he commented.
Several organizations, including Transwaste Recycling, Cranswick, and MKM, are collaborating with Coyle's foundation to support the giveaway. Coyle described the event as "bittersweet"—bitter because of the widespread need for assistance, but sweet because of the community's collective effort to provide it.