Street Soccer NI : TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH FOOTBALL

Tackling homeless and bringing positive change to people’s lives by providing housing support built around footballing activities, Street Soccer NI works with some of society’s most excluded and vulnerable people and has developed a model which engages some of the most hard-to-reach people.  The organisation sought funding for kit and equipment for its successful Derry/Londonderry project – providing regular football activities; extending one-to-one support (to access housing/employment/addiction services); offering educational and volunteer opportunities; and, in addition, participation in the Homeless World Cup.  Ald Hilary McClintock commented on the number of homeless refuges in the area.  The Committee recognised that this was a soccer school with a difference, and understood the importance of providing kit and boots for clients who join without appropriate clothing/footwear or means to buy their own.  On this basis, it was agreed to offer a grant of £1,000 to meet the full cost of the project.  The Irish Society’s Secretary also agreed to present the grant in person and take the opportunity to learn more about the organisation.