England's Ellis Genge raises thousands for local community

The Genge Fund, the foundation created by England and Bristol Bears loosehead prop Ellis Genge, has announced a successful fundraising campaign that raised £22k to support five youth charities across Bristol.

The funds were raised following a gala dinner, which took place soon after the foundation’s launch at the end of 2024, which looks to address the challenges faced by young people in Genge's native Bristol. Such challenges include limited opportunities, the lure of crime and social inequality.

The funds raised will be distributed to five organisations, each receiving £4k, with the remaining funds allocated to future community activities and fundraisers. The organisations receiving donations are Young Bristol, Youth Moves, Grassroots Communities, Lansdowne School, and the Bristol Bears Foundation.

The organisations are all dedicated to improving the lives of young people in Bristol through sport, education, and wellbeing initiatives.

"We are incredibly proud to have raised £22,000 for these fantastic organisations," Genge said.

"These donations will make a real difference in the lives of young people in Bristol, providing them with opportunities to thrive through sport, education, and wellbeing initiatives. The Genge Fund is committed to supporting the next generation, and we believe that sport is a powerful tool for positive change."

On its website, the foundation, supported by Genge's agency Roc Nations Sports International, says it is "levelling the playing field for Bristol’s youth."

"Founded by Ellis Genge, England Rugby player and proud Bristolian, The Genge Fund was born out of a deep-rooted love for our city and a passion for giving back to the community that shaped him.

"Growing up in Bristol, Ellis experienced firsthand the challenges that many young people face in our city, from limited opportunities to the lure of crime. Driven by a desire to make a difference, he set up The Genge Fund to provide support, resources, and hope for the next generation of Bristolians."

Genge started in England's 26-25 victory over France in round two of the Guinness Six Nations, as well as the defeat to Ireland in the opening weekend of the Championship.

The victory leaves England in third place in the table, level on points behind second-place France and four behind leaders Ireland.