Portsmouth schools and sports clubs invited to receive up to £5,000 as part of the Cash for Kids Sports Challenge 2026

As pupils across Portsmouth head back to the classroom this week, schools offering before or after school sports clubs for disadvantaged children are being invited to sign up for the Cash for Kids South Coast Sports Challenge 2026, the charity’s annual fundraising competition that last year saw local clubs across the South Coast raise £18,235.88, before grants.

Grassroots sports groups and charities can also get involved and have their fundraising returned as grant funding through the charity’s annual fundraising competition. Cash for Kids South Coast Central is looking for 15 clubs across Dorset, Hampshire and West Sussex to take part and receive a share of its grant funding.

Running from 26 September to 26 October 2026, Sports Challenge challenges entrants to raise as much as they can, with the top three fundraisers having the opportunity to receive up to £5,000, £2,500 and £1,500 respectively. Those raising £2,000 or more are also eligible for a £500 bonus award. Cash for Kids South Coast Central is looking for 15 clubs across Dorset, Hampshire and West Sussex to take part and receive a share of its grant funding.

This supports schools and community groups working to open up sport and physical activity to disadvantaged and disabled children and young people up to the age of 18. The funding can be used for everything from financial hardship support, kits and sports equipment and coaching support.

“We’d love to see even more schools get behind the Sports Challenge this year,” said Lisa Congdon, Cash for Kids South Coast manager. “It’s such a simple idea - a sponsored run, a keepie-uppie competition, a sports day with a twist - and every school team that takes part comes away a winner, because the money raised goes straight back into getting more children active, whatever their background or ability.”

The challenge is open for sign-ups now and will close on 14 September. School sports teams and grassroots clubs interested in taking part in Sports Challenge 2026 can find out more and register their interest with the Cash for Kids South Coast team via email [email protected].