It's an uncertain time around the world, as together we face the COVID-19 pandemic. It's easy to get bogged down in the relentless news articles or swept away by the tide of negative social media stories surrounding the virus.
But it's during these times of hardship that we see the true character of people shining through the gloom. We've seen first-hand the best of humanity in our very own region, as people go to the aid of their fellows in the community. This has inspired us to want to do something and give back to the people and the communities in our region.
There's no community more inclusive, accepting, supportive, and resilient than that of the rugby family. Week in, week out, rugby depend on their local community to rally around their clubs to give them support, including players, officials, board members, supporters, families, and volunteers. These grassroot clubs are the life and soul of Welsh rugby and they never fail to answer the call.
Now, we will do our best to return that support.
We pledge to gift £58,000 worth of kit to local rugby clubs, in partnership with Canterbury.
Andrew Millward, Managing Director at the Ospreys said, "There are more important things in life than rugby, but the values the sport instils in us is what sets rugby and its communities apart. It is times like these when those values come to the fore.
"It is essential that we come together in times of need to support and be kind to each other. It is why there was no hesitation or doubt that this is the right thing to do. The clubs have supported us through thick and thin, and this is an opportunity to show our gratitude.
"The Ospreys hope this gift of kit will help relieve some of the financial strain that the clubs in the region will no doubt experience over the coming months."
Alongside Ospreys in the Community, the team are currently drawing up plans to contact clubs from across the region and work out the logistic side of things.
Next week, players, staff, and volunteers will deliver Ospreys kit to their local clubs, and in turn, the clubs can decide what they'd like to do with them. They may sell or raffle the jerseys in order to raise much needed funds or donate the kit to families who may be struggling during these times of hardship.
We are one true region. We are tough, loyal, and resilient. We are all Ospreys.
#OspreyliaTogether