Millwall to host Jimmy's Day on Fulham's visit to The Den
Thursday 19 April 2018 09:18, UK
Millwall will use their upcoming league game against Fulham to raise awareness for the For Jimmy organisation, which aims to tackle street violence and foster community spirit in London.
The Cottagers travel to The Den on Friday, live on Sky Sports Football, and the Lions will use the match to honour Millwall fan Jimmy Mizen, who was tragically killed in 2008 at the age of 16.
Jimmy's Day has been held annually for the last six years at Millwall and chief executive Steve Kavanagh believes football clubs must play their part in addressing the issue of street violence.
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"In society at the moment there is no bigger story at the moment; street crime is out there ruining lives for people," he said.
"Football clubs have this power to deliver messages into this community and we feel it is part of our privileged position to do that.
"We're delighted to help them and Jimmy's Day has been a big part of what the Millwall family can do, our fans look forward to it."
Jimmy Mizen's parents, Barry and Margaret, were awarded MBE's in 2014 for their work with young people in London and both have praised the work of Millwall in assisting the For Jimmy organisation.
"I believe that the issues in our society will not be solved by policing or government policies alone. What will make the difference is a strong community spirit," said Barry Mizen.
"For us, that community spirit is epitomised down here at this club. On Friday I will be thanking everybody for the support that we've had. This is about a community looking out for itself and trying to make our streets safer."
Margaret Mizen added: "There are so many young people losing their lives at the moment. Far too many to even think about.
"Wouldn't it be great if all clubs took one person who had lost their life to violence and talked about it? Young people look up to football clubs and players, I think it could make a difference."
