Celtic squad bring 'festive cheer' to Glasgow Children’s Hospital as club donate £10,000 during annual visit

Celtic have presented a £10,000 donation from their charity foundation during a visit to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.

Manager Brendan Rodgers and his entire squad, including first-team stars such as Callum McGregor, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Arne Engels, made their annual trip to the hospital on Monday and helped to spread some festive cheer to young patients and their families.

During the visit, the Hoops players handed out gifts, took photographs with children on the wards and spent time with parents at a time of year which represents a challenge for so many facing hardship in their lives.

The Parkhead club also contributed another sizable donation to the Children’s Hospital Charity from the Celtic FC Foundation in support of their vital work via this year’s Christmas Appeal to reflect the club’s long-standing commitment to helping those in need.

Captain Callum McGregor outlined the importance of their visit, emphasising Celtic’s deep connection with the local community. He said: “Celtic has always been about more than football—it’s about family, compassion, and helping others. Our visit to Glasgow Children’s Hospital is a tradition that means so much to all of us. Spending time with these brave kids and their families is incredibly humbling, and seeing the smiles on their faces is what Christmas is all about.

“The charitable roots of our club, established by Brother Walfrid to support those in need, remain at the heart of everything we do. Celtic FC Foundation continues this legacy, and we are proud to contribute to the incredible work of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, which provides such vital support to young patients and their families.”

The Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity works tirelessly to fund life-changing medical equipment, family support services, and innovative play therapies that enhance the hospital experience for thousands of children across Scotland.

Celtic’s donation will allow the charity to gift special Christmas presents to hundreds of children in their care, who are affected by ongoing health issues.

Expressing her gratitude, Kirsten Watson, CEO of Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity, said: “There's a magical atmosphere in the hospital when the Celtic players visit. We are indebted to the club, the Foundation and its supporters for making such a difference to the lives of our young patients and their families, year after year. It's one of our most cherished traditions, and one that the children will always remember.”