A new sports site will be created in Beijing to benefit migrant workers and their families in China, thanks to a charitable program by Barclays.

The global financial company will invest approximately 4 million ($585,000) as part of its Spaces for Sports program in partnership with the nonprofit Compassion for Migrant Children (CMC), which is committed to helping children of migrant workers in China and their communities through social and educational programs.

The site has received support from Premier League stars on Hull City, West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur. The announcement coincides with this week's Barclays Asia Trophy, a preseason tournament featuring the three soccer clubs and local Chinese side Beijing Guo'an.

The partnership will combine CMC's expertise with migrant communities and Barclays' experience of establishing sports projects and facilities that can further aid CMC's work.

"I think it's great that Barclays Spaces for Sports has invested in this project," said West Ham and England goalkeeper Robert Green. "The local community will have access to a much needed sports facility, which will hopefully deliver many social as well as sporting benefits to youngsters in the area."

Chris Hui, managing director and head of investment banking of China/Hong Kong at Barclays Capital, said the firm is committed to making grassroots investments in sports around the world.

"We are delighted to be announcing this new partnership with CMC. Barclays believes that sport has a key role to play in revitalizing our communities all around the world, and we look forward to this investment delivering a lasting impact here in China," Hui said.

Barclays Spaces for Sports was launched in 2004, and has delivered 200 sustainable sports sites, benefiting more than half a million people across the UK. It was expanded globally in April 2008, with projects established in South Africa and the United States.

(China Daily July 29, 2009)