Salford Mixed Martial Arts has launched a community fundraising drive for Jack’s House in Didsbury, Young Lives vs Cancer’s Home from Home for families of children and young people facing cancer.
Throughout November, the Salford gym will open its doors every Monday to Friday from 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 8pm, and on Saturday from 10am to 12pm, to collect donations of everyday essentials – from toiletries and cleaning products to coffee and washing powder – for families staying at Jack’s House.
Young Lives vs Cancer is the leading UK charity for children and young people with cancer (0-25) and their families. The charity supports families through Specialist Social Workers and Homes from Home near hospitals.
Jack’s House provides free accommodation for families whose children and young people are receiving cancer treatment, helping families avoid the extra financial burdens of travel, accommodation and food costs.
Young people and families face an extra £700 a month in costs during cancer treatment. Travel is the largest cost at £250 a month and can often be over an intense and lengthy period of time, taking a toll on families.
Without the vital support offered at Jack’s House in Didsbury, many families would face long daily commutes, or have to pay for accommodation in the city during treatment – something which can last for weeks or months at a time.
“Young Lives vs Cancer do incredible work in Salford and Manchester,” said Jon Leonard, founder of Ultra White Collar Boxing, who initiated the drive. “When we heard Jack’s House needed more supplies, we knew Salford Mixed Martial Arts – one of our key partner gyms – could help. Those within the boxing community have big hearts – and this is a small way we can make a big difference.”
Brian, coach at Salford Mixed Martial Arts, added: “When Jon approached us, we didn’t hesitate. Boxing isn’t just about fitness – it’s about community. Jack’s House supports families through the toughest fights of their lives, and we’re proud to back them. Opening up our gym for donations was the least we could do”
In 2024/25, Jack’s House supported hundreds of families, giving them a home away from home while their children underwent treatment — particularly vital for those requiring daily hospital visits such as radiation therapy.
Cheryl Ratcliffe Jack’s House Accommodation Manager, said: “As we approach winter and Christmas, cancer treatment means many children and young people, and their families are facing weeks and months spent many miles from home. Our Home from Home means we can help keep those families together. We want to thank everyone involved for this community fundraising drive and everyone who donates. It means we’ll be able to supply families with the simple essentials. They may seem small, but they make a huge difference to families going through cancer.”
Donation details:
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Monday – Friday, 10:00am to 1:00pm, 5:00pm to 8:00pm & Saturday, 10:00am – 12:00pm
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Salford Mixed Martial Arts, 15 Hope St, Salford M5 4WN
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Requested items
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Supermarket gift vouchers
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Deliveroo and Just Eat vouchers
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Toothbrushes and toothpaste
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Shampoo and conditioner
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Shower gel
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Deodorant (male and female)
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Lip balm
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Hand cream
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Baby wipes
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Sanitary Products
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Cleaning supplies
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Dishwasher tablets
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Long-life semi skimmed milk
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Instant coffee
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Laundry washing powder
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Laundry fabric conditioner
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Pocket tissues
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