St Mirren Chief Executive Tony Fitzpatrick has praised the local community and supporters for the way they have all come together during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Buddies have been active in the community with the St Mirren Charitable Foundation working alongside Star Project Paisley to source, and deliver, food to send to the most vulnerable in the area while Street Stuff have been in at schools working with young people.
Saints supporters have also been playing their part, donating food, while today fans are also taking part in #StripesOnFriday to raise money for the St Mirren Charitable Foundation.
Tony says these acts of kindness have been heartening during a devastating time and hopes they will continue when the virus is eventually defeated.
We do pride ourselves on being a family, community club. We don't just say that we back it up with actions and it's incredible the work that Gayle Brannigan at the Charitable Foundation, Street Stuff, Kibble, the manager and the staff have done in the community.
"The community has given so much back as well and it never ceases to amaze me the way our supporters and community have come together. It's been great to see such actions of human kindness. It shows what we mean to the community and likewise what the community means to us and that's something that will be important to carry on once all of this is over.
"These are difficult times but it's about trying to stay positive. It's given everyone a shock but it gives us all a chance to slow down and reflect upon our lives. Families are spending more time together, people are coming together to show their support for our amazing NHS and frontline workers. It's hard to find positives because of the devastation this is causing but it has truly made us appreciate the NHS and show our gratitude to those who are putting their lives at risk.
"My message to the supporters would be simple - thank you. It's hard to put into words what they are doing for the club and the community and I'd ask them to please keep it going."
Football has been an understandable afterthought during this pandemic, but Tony confessed that the club, like any other business, isn't immune to the threat of coronavirus and the uncertainty around when football will return.
We have regular board meetings every week and it given us all a chance to plan ahead. It's difficult thought because nobody knows how long this is going to go on.
"St Mirren Football Club is a business like any other business and if there is no income coming in it is tough. We can only do our best just now and once there is more clarity with what is happening with leagues then hopefully there are ways we can start to get income in.
"I'm not hiding the fact these are difficult times for the club and all businesses. We are doing everything possible to keep the club going and there may be a time when we really need our supporters help. But the one thing I know about St Mirren supporters is that they always step up."
