On World Homelessness Day, on Friday, UEFA and the Homeless World Cup Foundation recognised the outstanding partnership between Irish Homeless Street Leagues (IHSL) and the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) for their long-standing collaboration using football as a tool for social inclusion.
Since 2004, the FAI has worked closely with IHSL, supporting grassroots and international programmes that give people experiencing homelessness and social exclusion opportunities to rebuild confidence and dignity through football. The IHSL is now an affiliate and active member of the FAI’s Football for All programme and holds a seat on its committee.
Over the years, the FAI has provided annual funding, access to coaching staff, logistical help for tournaments and guidance on safeguarding and vetting. The Association is always represented at IHSL’s All-Ireland tournaments and has supported the leagues’ growth across the country.
One of the most impactful commitments has been awarding official international caps to players representing Ireland at the Homeless World Cup – a symbolic recognition that has motivated players who once felt life had passed them by. The FAI has also opened pathways for players to undertake coaching and refereeing courses.
As part of this recognition, UEFA has awarded €15,000 to help expand IHSL’s grassroots leagues nationwide, with a focus on increasing participation opportunities for both male and female players.
“We are delighted to receive this award from UEFA in recognition of the excellent relationship we enjoy with the Football Association of Ireland,” said Sean Kavanagh, Chairman & Founder, Irish Homeless Street Leagues.
“The relationship is a very positive one, its foundations born out of respect and common purpose. Although our organisations are very different in size and scope, we share the same goals and values – to empower individuals through teamwork, communication and confidence-building to fulfil their true potential both on the field of play and in life.”
“The FAI is proud to support the Irish Homeless Street Leagues and the incredible work they do in communities across Ireland,” added David Courell, FAI CEO.
“Their programmes show the true power of football – breaking down barriers, building confidence and creating opportunities for people who may otherwise feel excluded. We are delighted that this partnership is being recognised by UEFA and the Homeless World Cup Foundation, and we look forward to continuing to stand alongside IHSL in using football as a force for good.”
“I am so grateful to the Street Leagues for selecting me to play in the Homeless World Cup, but the experience is so much more than football,” said Ireland International player on the Homeless team, Dara O’Connor.
“The only way to explain how it made me feel is to experience it for yourself. A ball can truly change a life.”
Since the first Homeless World Cup in 2003, UEFA has been the Foundation’s longest-standing supporter, helping to grow a global movement that has reached more than 1.7 million people worldwide. The recognition of IHSL and the FAI is part of a wider UEFA initiative to highlight exceptional collaborations between UEFA’s European National Associations and Homeless World Cup Member Countries across Europe.
“The partnership between the Irish Homeless Street Leagues and the FAI is a brilliant example of what happens when our European Member Countries and their National Associations work together,” said Mel Young, Co-Founder and President, Homeless World Cup Foundation.
“By combining respect, resources and a shared purpose, they have created a platform of dignity, opportunity and belonging for people across Ireland. This award recognises their outstanding collaboration and the impact it has on countless lives.”
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