Middlesbrough-born TV presenter Steph McGovern has once again shown her love for her hometown by winning an incredible £125,000 for a local charity on an ITV game show.
Steph, who has always been vocal about her pride in Teesside, chose Rubies Charity, a grassroots organisation in Middlesbrough that supports young girls by boosting their confidence and self esteem.
A Life Changing Win for Rubies
Rubies works with girls aged 10 to 16, helping them develop confidence, resilience, and empowerment. The charity was founded in 2018 by friends Liz Edward and Christa Coulson after research revealed Middlesbrough was the worst place in the UK to grow up as a girl. Determined to change this, they started a support group, which has since grown into a vital community resource.
While Christa is no longer involved in the charity, Liz continues as co-founder and CEO, leading a passionate team dedicated to transforming young lives.
The staff at Rubies gathered together to watch the programme, knowing Steph had played for them but completely unaware of how much she had won. The moment the £125,000 total was revealed, the team was left in complete shock. Steph later video-called them, where they admitted they were too shell shocked to speak but overwhelmed with gratitude.
Steph’s Longstanding Support for Rubies
Steph has been involved with Rubies for over five years, helping with fundraising and creating unique opportunities for the girls they support. She has even taken some of them to TV studios, offering them unforgettable experiences.
Speaking about Steph’s generosity, Liz Edward said:
“It has just been amazing to see Middlesbrough portrayed in such a positive light, really showing what the people from here are like. Steph is an incredible human being, and we owe so much to her. We are all just speechless and cannot believe it. She has taken such an interest in us, and you can tell she really cares and wants to make a huge difference for her hometown which we cannot thank her enough for.
What This Means for Rubies
Each year, Rubies supports over 300 girls through school based programs, group sessions, and counselling. The impact of their work is life-changing, and this donation will allow them to reach even more vulnerable young girls.
Liz confirmed that this funding will make a massive difference, enabling the charity to expand its services and continue empowering young girls across Middlesbrough.
Steph’s win isn’t just a boost for Rubies It’s a moment of pride for the entire town.
Project Middlesbrough 
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