A FOOTBALL club’s crowd funder goal has been extended after it received an influx of donations.

Sunderland fans were hoping to raise around £10,000 to help self-isolating people with their mental health and to cover food costs.

Little did they know, they would smash that target six times over with donations from nearly 4,000 people.

Now, the creators of the fundraiser have decided on a new goal of £73,000.

The number is significant for many Sunderland fans, as it was in 1973 when they last won a game at Wembley.

The fundraiser was set up as the club heads to Wembley for the final of the Papa John's Trophy.

Although Sunderland fans may not be able to travel to Wembley to watch their team take on Tranmere Rovers, many have taken the opportunity to raise money for local causes.

The idea was initiated by lifelong Sunderland fan Peter Richardson from Yorkshire.

Shortly afterwards Black Cats’ supporters’ groups Red and White Army, the Senior Supporters Association and Sunderland AFC Branch Liaison Council (BLC) teamed up with the club and its official charity, Foundation of Light, to put the initiative in place.

All proceeds are being donated to Foundation of Light, Salvation Army, Sunderland Foodbank and Washington Mind as part of the #SunderlandTogether campaign.

Money raised will be used to support critical Covid-19 response services in the North East, helping to tackle some of the region’s biggest challenges including rising food poverty levels, increased social isolation, poor mental health and rising unemployment.

Fans can get their hands on mementos from as little as £5 for an e-ticket, or printed keepsakes available from £10.

Businesses can also get involved by purchasing a virtual hospitality package from £100 for ten tickets to give to colleagues or clients.

These commemorative tickets are not a valid ticket for the match.

Just £5 will help provide a food package for a family or a socially isolated person. Whilst £10 will help teach a family to cook on a budget or provide critical work skills for the unemployed.

To donate visit: crowdfunder.co.uk/sunderland-together#start and click the ‘select reward’ button.