UEFA President sees football’s force for good in Uganda

UEFA President sees football's force for good in Uganda

Aleksander Čeferin visits non-governmental organisation that is using sport to bring hope to young people growing up in Kampala slum district.

UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin witnessed firsthand how sport is helping to improve the lives of vulnerable, young people when he visited one of Uganda’s largest slum communities this week.

During his stay in the capital Kampala, Mr Čeferin travelled to the Acholi Quarters district, home to some 20,000 residents, where the Sports for Resilience and Empowerment Project (SREP) is building sports facilities, training coaches and creating social and economic opportunities for 2,500 children and 850 caregivers.

The project is run by non-governmental organisation, the Aliguma Foundation, which receives funding support from the UEFA Foundation for Children.

"Football is maybe the most powerful thing in the world.”

Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA President

Clearly moved by the warmth of his welcome and his conversations with local schoolchildren and community leaders. “It's not only about elite competitions. but it can also be a force for good,” added the UEFA President, after watching an exhibition football match played on a makeshift football pitch in Acholi. “We should use it to do good and working with the Aliguma Foundation is one way we do it.”

 

"This wasn't just an ordinary visit. It was a game-changer. UEFA President walking through one of the largest slum communities in Kampala gave hope to so many destitute people. We can dream again knowing that all things are possible."

Ritah Aliguma, Aliguma Foundation CEO

UEFA commitment

Both Mr Čeferin's visit and his words of support underline UEFA's commitment to using football’s popularity and influence as a force for good. Since its establishment in 2015, the UEFA Foundation has supported over 400 projects worldwide, donated equipment and provided grants - all with the goal of assisting the world’s poorest, most vulnerable children or crisis-stricken regions.

UEFA’s President was travelling to the African continent for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, en route to attending the 73rd FIFA Congress in Kigali, Rwanda.

 

The Aliguma Foundation

Project Partner

Founded by Ritah Aliguma in 2017, the Aliguma Foundation aims to use football to improve the lives of young people in slum communities. The initiative empowers beneficiaries to build better lives for themselves and their families by facilitating access to education, essential health care and football training for children.

 

 

Eleven new projects by ECA member clubs supported following the second round of the ECA’s relief programme.

Eleven new projects by ECA member clubs supported following the second round of the ECA’s relief programme

ECA PARTNERS WITH UEFA FOUNDATION ON HUMANITARIAN INITIATIVE TO HELP UKRAINIANS AFFECTED BY THE WAR

Following a second call for proposals, the ECA Relief Committee has approved applications for financial assistance from ten clubs to support 11 new projects designed to assist children and families displaced by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

The approved projects have been passed to the UEFA Foundation for Children for final approval and transfer of the funds granted, up to a maximum of €25,000 per club per proposed project. The total amount granted to the new round of projects comes to around €250,000, meaning that a grand total of €930,000 has now been allocated out of the original €1m ECA Relief Fund.

Commenting on the allocation of funds to the clubs, Dariusz Mioduski, ECA Vice-Chairman and Chairman of the ECA Relief Committee, said:

“At ECA, we are all engaged in assisting clubs and allowing them to continue their excellent work in supporting Ukrainian children and families displaced by this tragic war. I am very pleased, therefore, that our ECA Relief Committee was able to approve another 11 projects, making a total of 26 projects that have received financial donations.

“The more projects and clubs ECA supports through this programme, the more children and families we help in these difficult times.”

The ECA Relief Committee was set up to receive and review applications from clubs that are implementing concrete and effective humanitarian initiatives to support the integration and development of those affected by the war in Ukraine.

ECA Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaïfi announced that an ECA Relief Fund of €1m would be made available to clubs for projects relating to the Ukrainian humanitarian crisis during his opening speech at the ECA General Assembly in Vienna in March last year.

In the first round of proposals in August 2022, the ECA Relief Committee approved 15 projects, committing €680,000 of financial assistance to humanitarian projects helping Ukrainian refugees.

The clubs whose projects were approved in the second round are Legia (Poland), Kalju (Estonia), SJK Seinãjoki (Finland), Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine), Liberec (Czechia), Sporting CP (Portugal), Trenčín (Slovakia), NK Veres Rivne (Ukraine), Wisła Kraków (Poland) and Zimbru (Moldova).

 

UEFA donates funds to help earthquake victims in Türkiye and Syria

UEFA and UEFA Foundation for Children donate funds to help earthquake victims ​​​​in Türkiye and Syria

UEFA TO PAY TRIBUTE AT ALL UEFA CLUB COMPETITION MATCHES NEXT WEEK

UEFA and its partner, the UEFA Foundation for Children, have made an initial donation of €200,000 to support the vast humanitarian operation assisting victims of last Monday’s two devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria.

UEFA has made a donation of €150,000 to the Turkish Football Federation (TFF), while the Foundation has committed €50,000 to the Bonyan Organization and Tiafi (Team international Assistance for Integration), two non-governmental organisations working on the frontlines of the disaster response in southern Türkiye and Syria.

European football’s governing body is also coordinating efforts by its member associations to contribute to a joint UEFA-UEFA Foundation disaster relief fund.

"UEFA is making this initial donation to help the immediate humanitarian response to this horrendous tragedy," said UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin on Friday.

"I also want to thank our member associations for their quick and compassionate reaction and support offered to those affected by this terrible event."

UEFA is also exploring the organisation of additional fund-raising activities during this season’s Champions League Final week, which will take place in Istanbul in June. Further details will be announced in the coming weeks.

In a further show of European football’s support for Türkiye and Syria, UEFA has also announced that a moment of silence will be observed before kick-off at all of its club competition matches next week in respect for victims of the earthquakes.

To date, the 6 February earthquakes have claimed more than 20,000 lives and left tens of thousands of people without shelter in freezing winter temperatures.

Related links

UEFA : uefa.com
Tiafi: tiafi.org
Bonyan Organization: bonyan.ngo

partner

Dreams can come true: that is what we’re here for!

Dreams can come true: that is what we’re here for!

We strive to make the impossible possible and provide an unforgettable experience for children, especially those living with serious or long-lasting illnesses.

After two years without being able to take our little fans to the stadiums, the UEFA Foundation was able to resume its wish-maker programme. Once again, we could count on our partner Etoile filante / Sternschuppe and the active support of UEFA's volunteer workforce, known as wish-makers, to fulfil new football dreams.

The UEFA Foundation is delighted to fulfil youngsters’ wildest dreams, letting them meet football stars and watching a high-profile match with their favourite team. This unique experience is shared with their families and gives them incredible shared souvenirs. During the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, five dreams came true, and others are on their way in the spring.

We look forward to bringing joy to the hearts of even more children!

Two thoughts make me extremely happy and proud to act as a wish-maker. Seeing the face of a sick child and their family light up when their dream becomes reality and they finally meet their favourite player or team.

These moments are incredibly precious for the family, and the memories and photos live on for years and help them through difficult times. It is so heart-warming to see the lengths to which everybody involved is prepared to go so that the child has an unforgettable experience: our UEFA venue team, the people from the club, the players… all work together towards this one goal.

- Bettina Mamie, UEFA wish-maker

Solidarity: a human and sporting value

Solidarity: a human and sporting value

Through numerous initiatives, European football’s governing bodies, clubs and players have played a key role in supporting the Ukrainian people, especially children.

The International Day of Solidarity is an opportunity to raise public awareness of local and global issues, mobilise various social actors, remind governments to respect their commitments relating to international agreements and celebrate solidarity achievements.

When war broke out in the heart of Europe, the European football community, supported by our foundation, quickly mobilised to provide emergency aid to civilians affected by the conflict. The UEFA Foundation for Children immediately set up an emergency fund of €100,000 to help Ukrainian children and refugees. These funds were granted to the Football Association of Moldova, which worked with local humanitarian organisations to deliver medicine and equipment to children's hospitals in Ukraine.

   

At the same time, the foundation’s board of trustees decided to use the 2022 UEFA Foundation for Children Award, amounting to €1m, to help Ukrainian children in their homeland as well as those seeking refuge in neighbouring countries. It did this by financing initiatives by UEFA member associations and charities focusing on children’s rights and welfare. The precise needs were evaluated in close cooperation with the various national football associations and local partners.

Children are extremely vulnerable during conflicts, and it is our duty to help protect their fundamental rights and their health. Thanks to the solidarity of European football and the support of our partners, we will be able to provide some of the help that children urgently need in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.

Aleksander Čeferin, president of UEFA and the UEFA Foundation for Children

National Associations united to help civilians

The UEFA Foundation for Children Award was shared among the football associations of Moldova, Slovakia, Poland and Romania along with our partner Cross Culture Project Association, which was working with the Ukrainian Association of Football.

Initially, the aid helped to provide necessities such as food, medical equipment and personal hygiene products for children, since it had become very difficult to buy them locally.

In a second step, items such as mattresses, blankets, duvets, pillows, electric heaters, sports equipment and clothing were provided to Ukrainian children and their families braving the winter in makeshift accommodation.

Finally, local football clubs were provided with football equipment and training facilities while children were given sports clothes and shoes.

Emergency relief and psychosocial support

Cross Culture Project Association and the Ukrainian Association of Football joined forces to offer displaced children in Ukraine a child-friendly space during the conflict and the opportunity to play with children from their host communities. The Open Fun Football Schools programme focuses on security and psychosocial issues under the guidance of school psychologists, enabling children to play while also expressing their feelings. In addition, a special supplementary programme provides food for orphans and the most vulnerable children.

TeamUp for Ukraine

This initiative was developed by a number of ‘football for good’ organisations and partners of the foundation that were already active in the region and able to provide immediate support. The NGOs involved are League of Tolerance (Ukraine), Cross Cultures Project Association (Ukraine and Moldova), Trenuj Bycie Dobrym (Poland), Oltalom Sports Association (Hungary) and the Policy Center for Roma and Minorities (Romania).

       

Call for projects 2022

Through our yearly call for projects, we renewed our support for three projects in Ukraine.

The Football for Future project is run by Shakhtar Social, the charitable arm of FC Shakhtar Donetsk. This social football project aims to promote social inclusion and cohesion, providing equal chances for internally displaced children and socially disadvantaged kids to play football and be involved in extracurricular education as form of relief from the stress of living in a crisis-stricken area. Each year, 640 children affected by the war benefit from free football sessions and local tournaments in eight Ukrainian cities that have been devastated since February 2022.

       

First Aid is an educational sports project for coaches and teachers set up by the Klitschko Foundation. Participants will follow a two-day training course on the basics of first aid and the psychological care of children. This new knowledge will allow teachers to take a more innovative and professional approach.

Play Together is run by the charity Around Football and will provide psychological help through sports activities to children and teenagers affected by the war in ten regions of Ukraine. The project will train a network of professional volunteers to use football as a tool to support children.

The total amount donated by the foundation exceeded €1.3m, distributed as follows:

UEFA member association or charity Funds
Slovak Football Association €165,000
Football Association of Moldova €300,000
Romanian Football Federation €145,000
Polish Football Association €200,000
Cross Culture Project Association €250,000
TeamUp for Ukraine €50,000
Shakhtar Social (Football for Future project) €53,460
Klitschko Foundation (First Aid project) €70,000
Around Football (Play Together project) €125,000
Total €1,358,460

 

 

European Club Association (ECA) joins the relief effort

In light of the situation in Ukraine, the European Club Association (ECA) entered into an operational partnership with the foundation through which an assistance fund for Ukrainian civilians affected by the conflict was set up.

Every ECA member club was eligible to apply for a grant of between €25,000 and €50,000 to support initiatives helping Ukrainian people who continue to be affected by the tragic consequences of the war. These funds enabled the clubs to take practical action to encourage the integration and education of children displaced within Ukraine or abroad, as well as their families. Many clubs in regions with a high influx of refugees had already invested considerable resources in a range of projects supporting the civilian population. Players from several European leagues have also taken similar initiatives on a personal basis.

So far, the following 15 clubs have received such grants, totalling €676,634: AC Sparta Praha (Czech Republic), Athletic Club (Spain), Celtic FC (Scotland), FC Chikhura Sachkhere (Georgia), FC Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine), FC Slovan Liberec (Czech Republic), GNK Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia), Heart of Midlothian FC (Scotland), Legia Warszawa (Poland), Maccabi Haifa FC (Israel), Nõmme Kalju FC (Estonia), SJK Seinäjoki (Finland), SK Slavia Praha (Czech Republic), ŠK Slovan Bratislava (Slovakia) and Trabzonspor AŞ (Turkey).

In 2023, the foundation will follow up on all these projects and monitor the needs of children affected by the conflict in order to provide appropriate assistance. Meanwhile, beyond Ukraine, we will also continue to support projects all over the world with the help of our partners.

 

ACTIVITY REPORT 2021/22

ACTIVITY REPORT 2021/22

Dear Friends,

The period covered in this report is accompanied by great sadness. The fear, uncertainty and frustration we all experienced during what seemed like an endless pandemic were taken to another level when the war broke out in the heart of Europe, in a senseless act that has affected millions of children and their families. I cannot even imagine how this horror may look to children's eyes.

But this report also brings hope, reflecting humanity’s ability to win even in the most challenging times. I am genuinely proud of the reaction from the European football community, which, with our foundation’s support, quickly mobilised to provide emergency relief to civilians affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Countless tons of humanitarian aid from Hungary, Moldova, Poland, Romania and Slovakia have reached thousands of people in need, with football associations and clubs leading by their shining example.

During this time, our foundation continued supporting the best projects and using the power of football to improve the lives of millions of at-risk children and teenagers all over the world. Thanks to generous contributions from UEFA's sponsors and partners, we were able to help many youngsters growing up under challenging circumstances – children in detention or forced to work, child victims of land mines, and children living in less tolerant surroundings. Together, we will carry on protecting children’s right to childhood while using football as a catalyst for personal development, social equality and cohesion.

I am also very proud that more than 450 project beneficiaries were given a chance to attend our competition finals, with many of them stepping out onto the pitch with players and referees. So, what might look like a short walk to some, was a unique adventure for these children, creating a lifetime bond with our beautiful sport.

Please, pay heed to these testimonies. They will tell you a story of joy, love and hope that football brings to their lives. They also give us the strength and determination to keep fighting for them. The UEFA Foundation for Children, dear friends, is grateful for your support.

Activity report 2021-22

UEFA Foundation for Children

Aleksander Čeferin

Chairman

 

  1. Calciosociale (Italy)
  2. InterSOS (Lebanon)
  3. Fundación River Plate (Argentina)
  4. Unis vers le Sport (Mali)

From packs to pitches: Sabritas RePlay arrives in Iztapalapa

From packs to pitches: Sabritas RePlay arrives in Iztapalapa

The global initiative giving packaging a new purpose brings a new pitch to Iztapalapa

For several years, the Mexican crisp brand Sabritas, (a subsidiary of PepsiCo) has focused on building strong ties with the football community, and now it has joined the global RePlay initiative, created by Lay’s in partnership with the UEFA Foundation for Children and the Fútbol Más Foundation, to give a second life to Sabritas packs while filling the world with smiles for all and generating positive results for the planet and people.

To this end, Sabritas has partnered with the Fútbol Más Foundation, PepsiCo Foundation Mexico and the UEFA Foundation for Children to build a new pitch in the community of Iztapalapa. This football field will host sports programmes and workshops led by the Fútbol Más Foundation with a view to motivating young people in four key ways: creating a sense of belonging, increasing commitment, promoting the safety of the community and guaranteeing access to sport.

“More than a football pitch, we have built a space that brings joy to the community where they can come together and enjoy moments of fun, happiness, motivation, and empowerment while promoting inclusion and sports. We are immensely proud of this initiative; it is an opportunity to continue to encourage positive change for the people and their environment. With this pitch, we seek to bring to life our brand’s purpose of bringing joy to communities by combining a passion for football with a social cause and creating a space where everyone can play and grow,” commented Hernán Tantardini, vice-president of Sabritas.

Ignacio Gomez, executive director of Fútbol Más in Mexico, added: “We are so excited to give a new life to this pitch, and now it’s time to start executing our educational sporting programmes to provide tailor-made support to the local community and drive positive change for generations to come.”

RePlay is a global initiative launched by the Lay’s brand in 2021 with the creation of the first sustainable RePlay pitch in South Africa. Having seen its positive social impact, the corporation set out to create more all over the world. RePlay pitches have already been built in Italy, Brazil, the UK and Mexico and more countries will follow in the coming years.

“Few things are as inspiring as putting sports at the service of communities. Here at the UEFA Foundation for Children, we believe that this is essential to ensure the holistic development of young people, especially those who grow up in underprivileged communities. With this in mind, RePlay has become one of our most consistent programmes, and bringing this new pitch to Mexico allows us to continue spreading our message,” said Urs Kluser, general secretary of the UEFA Foundation for Children.

Oribe Peralta, a UEFA Ambassador and one of Mexico’s best-known football players, attended the inauguration event and shared his thoughts on this joyful occasion for the local community:

"It's an honour to be supporting the launch of the Sabritas RePlay pitch. I am sure this pitch will have a positive impact, uniting the community through the power of football, helping them to learn, grow, develop confidence and teamwork, and of course have fun. I have been able to experience first-hand the impact that sports can have on people's lives, and thanks to this initiative, people will be able to find in football a safe and fun place.”

Finally, the event had a special surprise for the community with the visit of the UEFA Champions League trophy (known locally as the ‘Orejona’), one of the world’s most revered football trophies. Special guests and members of the local community were able to take photos of the trophy and enjoyed an afternoon spent participating in the different activities that will bring smiles and joy to this renewed space.

It's an honour to be supporting the launch of the Sabritas RePlay pitch. I am sure this pitch will have a positive impact, uniting the community through the power of football, helping them to learn, grow, develop confidence and teamwork, and of course have fun. I have been able to experience first-hand the impact that sports can have on people's lives, and thanks to this initiative, people will be able to find in football a safe and fun place.”

- Oribe Peralta, UEFA Ambassador

About PepsiCo

Project partner

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $79bn in net revenue in 2021, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1bn each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is its vision to be the global leader in beverages and convenient foods by winning with PepsiCo Positive (pep+). pep+ is the corporation’s strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the centre of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for the planet and people.

About Fútbol Más

Project Partner

Fútbol Más aims to promote the well-being of children and young people by strengthening their resilience processes, forming meaningful bonds and promoting community cohesion through games and sports. Its values are respect, joy, creativity, responsibility and teamwork. Present in 11 countries, it has developed 172 school, neighbourhood and corporate volunteering programmes, reaching more than 27 000 children and young people around the world.

 

UEFA Foundation for Children supports 65 humanitarian projects around the world

UEFA Foundation for Children supports 65 humanitarian projects around the world

 

The total amount granted will surpass €4.9m

The UEFA Foundation for Children's board of trustees has allocated funding to 65 projects supporting the rights of children and young people worldwide.

In addition to 30 different European projects and special funding for the Ukraine response, the foundation will support 12 projects in Africa, 12 in Asia, seven in Central and South America, and two in Oceania. It will also continue to partner with Lay's on the building of new pitches for children in particularly deprived locations. The total value of funding provided by the foundation this season will be more than €4.9m.

"We often say how powerful the impact of football on our lives is, but the work of our Foundation for Children illustrates that in the best possible way,” said UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin, who chaired the board’s meeting on Wednesday. "Together with our partners, we are proud to announce that next year we will deliver 65 projects, which should enable a greater number of children across the globe to enjoy the magic of football while also offering them hope for a better tomorrow."

The list of NGOs selected from the 2022 call for projects is as follows:

Organisation

Countries

EUROPE
Save the Children Albania
NGO Bridge of Hope Armenia
Genesis Project Bosnia and Herzegovina
Football Friends Bosnia and Herzegovina
Udruga Za Sport, Rekreaciju i Edukaciju – Igre mladih Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia
INEX – Association for Voluntary Activities Czech Republic
OM Foundation France
Sport dans la Ville France
HÁWAR.help Germany /Iraq
Lesbos community Greece
Amigos a gyerekekért Hungary
Sport Against Racism Ireland Ireland
Katamon Moadon Ohadim Israel
CREI ACLI Sardegna (Comitato Regionale Emigrazione Immigrazione) Italy
KFV Prishtina Kosovo
Vilnius Social Club Lithuania
NGO Parents Montenegro
KLABU Netherlands
European Amputee Football Federation Poland
United Way Romania Romania
Development Center for Youth Serbia
Fundación Grandes Valores Spain
Fondation IdéeSport Switzerland
PluSport Switzerland
Bonyan Organization Turkey
Everton in the Community United Kingdom
Rio Ferdinand Foundation United Kingdom
Scottish Football Partnership Trust United Kingdom
Klitschko Foundation Ukraine
Shakhtar Social Ukraine

 

Organisation

Countries

REST OF THE WORLD
AFRICA
Exodos Ljubljana Burkina Faso
Play for Change Democratic Republic of the Congo
Terre des hommes Egypt
Busajo Onlus Ethiopia
Association Kenskoazell Afrika Ivory Coast
Water4Wildlife Maasai Mara Foundation Kenya
Libre Vue Mali
Altus Sport South Africa
Karibu Tanzania Organization Tanzania
CIELO Togo
International Organization for Migration Tunisia
Aliguma Foundation Uganda
ASIA
Action for Development Afghanistan
Spirit of Soccer Cambodia
Plan International Hong Kong China
ASA Foundation Indonesia
Palestine: Sports for Life Iraq
Association Football Development Programme Global Jordan
Institute for Youth Development Kyrgyzstan
AFLEG Massoud Achkar Lebanon
Aspire Penang Malaysia
FundLife International Philippines
Street Child Sri Lanka
Helpcode Italia Yemen
CENTRAL and SOUTH AMERICA
Fundación GOLEES Costa Rica
GOALS Haiti Haiti
ChildFund International Bolivia
Inter Futura Colombia/Venezuela
Fundación Athletic Club Peru
Mulokot Foundation Suriname
Gurises Unidos Uruguay
OCEANIA
All In: Girls Play Pacific islands
Football United Pacific islands

The board of trustees also received an update on ongoing projects and on the impact of the foundation's support for child victims of the conflict in Ukraine. In addition, the board members expressed gratitude to the European football community, which had supported numerous initiatives to support Ukraine and neighbouring countries affected by the humanitarian crisis.

 

Andrea Radrizzani joins the UEFA Foundation for Children’s board of trustees

The UEFA Foundation for Children is proud to announce the appointment of Andrea Radrizzani as a new member of the board of trustees. As well as being the chair of Leeds United, Radrizzani is one of the world’s leading sports media entrepreneurs and the founder of Play for Change, an international sport and development non-profit aiming to help marginalised and at-risk youth, particularly in the developing world.

Commenting on his appointment, Radrizzani said: “It is a great honour and privilege to take a seat on the UEFA Foundation for Children’s board of trustees. I am dedicated to having a positive impact on children’s lives using the power of football and sport, and I look forward to harnessing my experience in cooperation with the other trustees to deliver a better future for our younger generations.”

The next board meeting is scheduled to take place on 3 June 2023 in Eindhoven, the Netherlands.

 

 

UEFA Foundation for Children Board Meeting 2022 (4)

Andrea Radrizzani joins the UEFA Foundation for Children’s board of trustees

 

 

 

Visa donates €50,000 to UEFA Foundation-backed charity selected by Amandine Henry

Visa donates €50,000 to UEFA Foundation-backed charity selected by Amandine Henry

The Player of the Match in the 2021/22 UEFA Women’s Champions League final has selected Sport dans la Ville to receive a €50,000 donation from Visa.

Olympique Lyonnais (OL) midfielder Amandine Henry has directed a €50,000 donation from Visa to Sport dans la Ville, a French charity supported by the UEFA Foundation for Children. An official award ceremony will be organised the 14th of September, on the OL campus in the presence of the association Sport dans la Ville.

Henry paved the way to OL’s 3-1 victory over FC Barcelona in the UEFA Women’s Champions League final back in May when she scored the first goal of the game in the sixth minute. Named Player of the Match by Visa, which sponsors UEFA’s women’s football competitions, she was given the opportunity to choose one of the 245 charities supported by the UEFA Foundation for Children to receive the prize money.

 

Making a difference on and off the pitch

"I am very happy to have been awarded Player of the Match at the UEFA Women’s Champions League final," Henry said. "My contribution to my team's victory has been recognised, which gives me real satisfaction, but I am also delighted to be able to contribute off the pitch."

"Thanks to Visa's commitment, I was able to choose an organisation that I hold in high regard. Sport dans la Ville does great work in Lyon and throughout France. Giving them such a significant donation will improve the conditions of access to sport for many young people. Considering what sport has enabled me to achieve, it means a lot to me."

Sport dans la Ville, a long-standing partner of the UEFA Foundation, works with young and disadvantaged children in marginalised neighbourhoods across France to help them achieve a better life through sports by offering mentoring and entrepreneurship programmes. Founded in 1998, the charity currently operates in 46 urban areas and has supported more than 12,000 at-risk youths across the country.

Visa is also partnering with Sport dans la Ville in underserved areas of Seine-Saint-Denis on a programme promoting the practice of sports among young people to lead healthier lives and develop the tools they need to perform better academically.

 

Sports and football to empower girls

Urs Kluser, General Secretary of the UEFA Foundation for Children, is delighted with Visa’s contribution, saying: “I thank VISA and Amandine for this donation. It is a nice link between women’s football and the foundation’s activity. It will not only make a difference to a meaningful project but will also promote our shared values, such as the passion for the game and equal opportunities.”

The UEFA Foundation for Children uses football as a springboard to empower children around the world. This is achieved by setting up sporting and educational projects that give children a safe place to learn and play, which ultimately improves their prospects.

"I want to thank Visa and Amandine on behalf of the entire Sport dans la Ville association for this very generous donation," said Nicholas Eschermann, president of Sport dans la Ville. "Visa is a trusted partner and we are very happy to have been able to count on their support for several years now."

 

Visa dedicated to women's football

“Visa's ongoing support for women's football provides a platform to recognise current athletes and inspire future ones and aims to make a small yet robust contribution to the globally growing movement for gender equality and women's empowerment. As partners of Sport dans la Ville, we are especially happy to see that they will receive this donation enabling them to keep supporting children through sports,” says Juan Herrera, Visa’s head of marketing for France, Belgium and Luxembourg.

In December 2018, UEFA announced a landmark seven-year partnership with Visa, who thus became the first ever UEFA sponsor dedicated to women's football.

The landmark agreement made Visa a main partner of the UEFA Women's Champions League, UEFA Women's EURO, European Women's Under-19 and Under-17 Championships and UEFA Women's Futsal EURO until 2025. Visa also collaborates on UEFA's Together #WePlayStrong marketing initiative, which is aimed at getting more girls and women to play football.

I am very happy to have been awarded Player of the Match at the UEFA Women’s Champions League final. My contribution to my team's victory has been recognised, which gives me real satisfaction, but I am also delighted to be able to contribute off the pitch. Thanks to Visa's commitment, I was able to choose an organisation that I hold in high regard. Sport dans la Ville does great work in Lyon and throughout France. Giving them such a significant donation will improve the conditions of access to sport for many young people. Considering what sport has enabled me to achieve, it means a lot to me.

- Amandine Henry, midfielder at Olympique Lyonnais

FC Barcelona v Olympique Lyon - UEFA Women's Champions League Final 2021/22
Olympique Lyonnais Training Session And Press Conference - UEFA Women's Champions League Final 2021/22

About Visa

Project partner

Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable, and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses, and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.fr or visit our blog

 

Lionel Messi, Mastercard’s global football ambassador, launches new campaign to raise funds for children’s health and education

Lionel Messi, Mastercard’s global football ambassador, launches new campaign to raise funds for children’s health and education

We partner with Mastercard to support Save the Children organisation ahead of UEFA Champions League Group Stage

5 September 2022, Nyon – Footballing legend Lionel Messi has kicked off a new fundraising campaign with Mastercard supporting Save the Children, that sees him in a new video reflect on how football gave him the opportunities that many children are deprived of.

Link to donate

The campaign will promote sports and educational activities as driving forces for change in UK, Italy and Spain. Messi will be joined by global Mastercard ambassadors Jordan Henderson, Giorgio Chiellini and Álvaro Morata.

This partnership will support Save the Children in the new initiative that aims to help children in poverty realise their potential through the power of football, other sports and educational activities, such as literacy and the arts.

Messi is joined by some of the best footballers from the UK, Italy and Spain to drive donations and support local children in each of their countries. Liverpool captain and England midfielder Jordan Henderson heads up the UK’s programme, which aims to help disadvantaged children under 16 access free activities throughout the 2023 summer holidays. Encouraging young people to build life skills and engage in ongoing learning and development is a core part of Save the Children’s work, and UK donations will help support 600 families and over 1,000 children in Manchester and North Tyneside.

Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini launches the campaign next week among his fans, aiming to raise funds to enable children and young adults in the country’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods to access Punti Luce education centres that promote free access to educational activities, a healthy diet and provide a broad range of sport and activity workshops, from football to volleyball and sailing – activities that would otherwise be completely inaccessible to those living in deprived and underserved neighborhoods.

In Spain, international and Atlético Madrid striker Álvaro Morata is driving donations to support 220 children in poverty and at risk of social exclusion. The holistic programme will see them given psychological support while providing opportunities to play sport and study values and creativity.

Giancarla Pancione Marketing and Fundraising Director at Save the Children Italy, said  “The number of children and teenagers in poverty throughout Europe dramatically rose in the last decade. This amplifies educational inequalities and penalises the future of the most disadvantaged girls, boys and teenagers, who are paying the heaviest price. This partnership is a way of joining forces and putting our best resources at their service, in order to fulfill their potential and built a brighter future.”

Mastercard is supporting the programmes by providing the technology to allow people to donate to the cause, and matching donations up to €300,000. The campaign forms part of Mastercard’s Cause Enablement work, in which it is transforming the digital donation world to make it easier for charities to connect donors to causes, and make seamless giving possible for everyone, everywhere. The donation widgets will be accessible through links from the ambassador, Mastercard, and partner social media channels as well as through ad banners on UEFA.com and Priceless.com editorial.

“At Mastercard, we have long believed in using our business for good. It’s hugely important to us that our technology and networks can power giving for sustainable impact,” said Jeannette Liendo, Senior Vice-President for Marketing and Communications at Mastercard Europe. “We’re so proud of this campaign and hope it, and our brilliant global ambassadors will help to drive home the message that any child can aim for the stars as long as they have the right resources behind them.”

Urs Kluser, General Secretary at the UEFA Foundation for Children, said “This generous support from Mastercard will make a big difference to the programme beneficiaries. It will allow more children in need to grow up healthy, to have access to education and sport, and get a chance for a better future.”

At Mastercard, we have long believed in using our business for good. It’s hugely important to us that our technology and networks can power giving for sustainable impact, We’re so proud of this campaign and hope it, and our brilliant global ambassadors will help to drive home the message that any child can aim for the stars as long as they have the right resources behind them.

- Jeannette Liendo, Senior Vice-President for Marketing and Communications at Mastercard Europe

Donations can be made via the ambassador posts, on the official UEFA Club Competitions Online Store on UEFA.com, or by clicking on the links through Mastercard and Save The Children social media channels plus Priceless.com

 

About Mastercard

Project partner

Mastercard (NYSE: MA), www.mastercard.com, is a technology company in the global payments industry. We operate the world’s fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. Mastercard products and solutions make everyday commerce activities – such as shopping, traveling, running a business and managing finances – easier, more secure and more efficient for everyone. Follow us on Twitter @MastercardNews, join the discussion on the Beyond the Transaction Blog and subscribe for the latest news on the Engagement Bureau.

About Save the Children

Project Partner

At Save the Children, we want every child to have a future. We work every day with passion, determination and professionality in Italy and around the world to give children the opportunity to be born and grow up healthy, receive an education and be protected. When an emergency breaks out, we are among the first to arrive and the last to leave. We work with local realities and partners to create a network that helps us to meet the needs of children, guarantee their rights and listen to their voices. We concretely improve the lives of millions of children, including those most difficult to reach. For over 100 years, Save the Children has been fighting to save children at risk and guarantee them a future.

Young Cerebral Palsy players shine at the UEFA Super Cup

Young Cerebral Palsy players shine at the UEFA Super Cup

Local children joined the UEFA Foundation ahead of Wednesday's curtain-raiser in Helsinki for a specially organised session alongside stars from HJK Helsinki and the Finland national team.

Local children with cerebral palsy (CP) were guests of the UEFA Foundation for a unique Super Cup training session in Helsinki on Tuesday.

16 kids from the local area joined specially trained CP football coaches, as well as male and female players from HJK Helsinki at the club's Bolt Arena, just metres from the Olympic Stadium which will stage Wednesday night's Super Cup match between Real Madrid and Eintracht Frankfurt.

The young players are all linked to the The Finnish Cerebral Palsy (CP) Association and enjoyed individual and team drills before mini matches and one final game, with the entire HJK Helsinki women's team joining in the fun alongside men's players , Paulus Arajuuri, Santeri Väänänen and Miro Tenho. As well as being one of Finland's leading clubs, HJK is also a fantastic pioneer for disability football, with CP and powerchair teams for both children and adults.

Maisa Fraser, 13, is one of the young players who could showcase her skills on the stadium pitch. "Events like today are important to show there are people like me that have cerebral palsy, which sometimes makes it harder to move physically," she said. "There are different kinds of people and it's important to show people that. One thing I love about playing football is the friendship and the team - I love my team-mates," she continued. "The team is like a second family, you have to appreciate every single one of them. It's a life lesson – you have to appreciate everyone in your life."

Paulus Arajuuri, HJK and former Finland defender

"Football is for everyone and I'm really pleased to see some happy kids here today. Events like this are very important, and if there is the slight chance I can make someone else's day nicer, then it's important to be a part of it. Football is a global sport, the number one in the world, and everyone should be able to enjoy it."

Among the coaches was Finland CP national team player, Mikael Jukarainen, who hopes the event can help to attract more players to the game.

"I started to play football in 1995, and always had lots of fun training and being in a team," he said. "As a coach, you can teach kids to have fun playing football and they can learn teamwork.

"Events like this are very useful, and give young kids a chance to play football. It's really hard, often impossible, to go and play in a 'normal' team, so this is the place. We have always been a marginal sport and had difficulties to find players, so sharing the knowledge that we exist will help us grow."

Essi Sainio, HJK and Finland midfielder

"We have many kinds of people in the world. Everybody should have the chance to play football and be themselves and this is one way to do it. It is amazing to see the joy in the kids, to play with them and see how much they enjoy playing football, you cannot name a price for that. Football is a language we can all talk – it doesn’t matter where you come from or who you are. You can go everywhere in the world, be whoever you want to be and you can always play football."

Lasse Keski-Loppi is a grassroots football expert at the Football Association of Finland (FAF), which has organised specialised disability football programmes for 25 years.

"We are proud to have our grassroots programme showcased at the 2022 UEFA Super Cup," he said. "This year our association launched its own CP football programme to promote football for all in Finland. This CP programme for youngsters and young talents helps many new young players to participate in football and follow their football dreams. We all do share the same game."

Four of the young players have also been selected to be Mastercard player mascots lined up next to the Real Madrid and Eintracht Frankfurt players at Wednesday's match.

Meanwhile, 20 youngsters from the Icehearts association will play a key role in the opening ceremony, acting as central circle carriers. Icehearts prevents social exclusion, enhances social skills and promotes the well-being of vulnerable children.

 

 

Events like today are important to show there are people like me that have cerebral palsy, which sometimes makes it harder to move physically. There are different kinds of people and it's important to show people that.

- Maisa Fraser, 13, one of the young players

Football is for everyone and I'm really pleased to see some happy kids here today. Events like this are very important, and if there is the slight chance I can make someone else's day nicer, then it's important to be a part of it. Football is a global sport, the number one in the world, and everyone should be able to enjoy it.

- Paulus Arajuuri, HJK and former Finland defender

UEFA Foundation will assist 15 ECA member clubs retained to receive assistance from the ECA relief programme

UEFA Foundation will assist 15 ECA member clubs retained to receive assistance from the ECA relief programme

ECA partners with UEFA Foundation to implement this humanitarian initiative to help Ukrainians affected by the ongoing conflict

The ECA Ukraine Relief Committee has approved applications for financial assistance from 15 member clubs for projects they are conducting to assist children and families displaced by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

The ECA Ukraine Relief Committee was set up to review applications from member clubs who are implementing concrete and effective humanitarian actions to support the integration and development of those affected by the war in Ukraine. ECA chairman Nasser Al­Khelaifi first announced the availability of the €1m ECA relief fund during his speech on 28 March at the at the 27th ECA General Assembly in Vienna.

Having been approved first by the Ukraine Relief Committee and then by the UEFA Foundation for Children, the 15 projects received the sums requested from the foundation. Donations were granted at an amont between €25,000 and €50,000 per club.

The value of the donations allocated to the 15 clubs comes to a combined total of €680,000, leaving €320,000 available in the relief fund for distribution in the future. An update will be given at the forthcoming ECA General Assembly in Istanbul, Türkiye, and a second-round call for projects from member clubs is expected to follow soon.

Commenting on the allocation of funds to the 15 clubs, Dariusz Mioduski, ECA vice-chairman and chairman of the Ukraine Relief Committee, said:

“At ECA we were all extremely concerned by the realities of hardship being suffered by the many refugees fleeing the tragic situation in Ukraine. I am very pleased, therefore, that our Ukraine Relief Committee was able to approve a total of 15 projects proposed by our member clubs, who will now receive the requested financial donations. This assistance will allow them to continue their good work supporting displaced Ukrainian children and families, bringing them much-needed assistance, human interaction and hope for the future. There is still a substantial amount left in the ECA Relief Fund and we expect a second call for projects from member clubs to be made in the near future.”

The 15 member clubs whose projects were approved are: AC Sparta Praha, Athletic Club, Celtic FC, FC Chikhura Sachkhere, FC Shakhtar Donetsk, FC Slovan Liberec, GNK Dinamo Zagreb, Heart of Midlothian FC, Legia Warszawa, Maccabi Haifa F.C., Nõmme Kalju FC, SJK Seinäjoki, SK Slavia Praha, ŠK Slovan Bratislava, Trabzonspor AŞ.

At ECA we were all extremely concerned by the realities of hardship being suffered by the many refugees fleeing the tragic situation in Ukraine. I am very pleased, therefore, that our Ukraine Relief Committee was able to approve a total of 15 projects proposed by our member clubs, who will now receive the requested financial donations.

This assistance will allow them to continue their good work supporting displaced Ukrainian children and families, bringing them much-needed assistance, human interaction and hope for the future. There is still a substantial amount left in the ECA Relief Fund and we expect a second call for projects from member clubs to be made in the near future.”

- Dariusz Mioduski, ECA vice-chairman and chairman of the Ukraine Relief Committee

Football for everyone at UEFA Super Cup

Football for everyone at UEFA Super Cup

UEFA Foundation for Children joins forces with cerebral palsy football in Finland and charity Icehearts to involve local children in the Super Cup opening ceremony

For the UEFA Foundation for Children, the UEFA Super Cup is much more than the result on the pitch. It is an opportunity to support some inspirational local projects and give the children involved an evening they will never forget.

The match also provides a platform for messages of inclusion and hope that demonstrate football’s positive influence and how it gives even the most vulnerable children a brighter outlook on life.

"The UEFA Super Cup does not only offer football fans across Europe the chance to watch the world's biggest stars in the spectacular season opener. It also allows UEFA and its Foundation for Children to engage directly with local youth projects. Using the power of our beautiful sport, together we will remain a driving force for positive and lasting changes across Europe, raising awareness about children's problems and overcoming them", UEFA President and Chairman of UEFA Foundation for Children Aleksander Čeferin said. "Our Foundation looks forward to working alongside the Football Association of Finland on vital local grassroots projects focused on children's well-being, simultaneously offering the local youngsters beautiful memories and opportunities to enjoy football."

” We are very proud and happy that the UEFA Super Cup will be held in Finland and to see local children take part in this event. Together with UEFA and its Foundation for Children we will offer a unique lifetime experience to the young players and raise awareness of disability football”, Ari Lahti, President of the Football Association of Finland added.

The 2022 UEFA Super Cup will shine a spotlight on the Cerebral Palsy (CP) Football Association of Finland that is developing its youth section. Four children will be selected to be Mastercard player mascots lined up next to the Real Madrid and Eintracht Frankfurt players. This unique opportunity means a lot to these youngsters and motivates them to aim higher and follow their dreams.

“The children selected for the Super Cup made an impression with their enthusiasm and skill in the first youth cerebral palsy football event held in May,” says CP football project coordinator Ville Sallinen. “They are very honoured, excited and a little bit nervous – but in a good way!”

 

To raise awareness ahead of the UEFA Super Cup night, the Football Association of Finland (SPL) and the CP Football Association will host a football event for young players with cerebral palsy and professional football players with and without cerebral palsy. There will be workshops and a demonstration of CP football.

“Disability football has been an important part of Finnish grassroots football for more than 25 years,” said Lasse Keski-Loppi, a grassroots expert at the SPL. “We are proud to have our grassroots programme showcased at the 2022 UEFA Super Cup. This year our association launched its own CP football programme to promote football for all in Finland. I am sure that the Super Cup will give the programme the visibility it needs at all levels. This CP programme for youngsters and young talents helps many new young players to participate in football and follow their football dreams. We all do share the same game.”

 

Meanwhile, 20 youngsters from the Icehearts association will play a key role in the opening ceremony, acting as central circle carriers. Icehearts prevents social exclusion, enhances social skills, and promotes the well-being of vulnerable children.

“When selecting the children to take part in the Super Cup, we wanted to reward those who have made special efforts in their studies and share a true passion for football,” says Karo Koivunen of Icehearts. “They are excited to be part of this magical moment – football is their life!”

The UEFA Super Cup does not only offer football fans across Europe the chance to watch the world's biggest stars in the spectacular season opener. It also allows UEFA and its Foundation for Children to engage directly with local youth projects. Using the power of our beautiful sport, together we will remain a driving force for positive and lasting changes across Europe, raising awareness about children's problems and overcoming them. Our Foundation looks forward to working alongside the Football Association of Finland on vital local grassroots projects focused on children's well-being, simultaneously offering the local youngsters beautiful memories and opportunities to enjoy football.

- Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA President and Chairman of UEFA Foundation for Children

Icehearts MD-3 training
CP Players

Tournament for Solidarity in Lesvos

Tournament for Solidarity in Lesvos

Legends 2004 and UEFA Foundation for Children promote social integration through football

The Champions For Life NPC Legends 2004 football team and the UEFA Foundation for Children are gearing up to promote the values of football on and off the pitch on the Greek island of Lesvos.

#UnitedWePlay

 

On 9 July, the Mytilene municipal stadium will host local Under-12 football academies and young refugees for a football tournament in an atmosphere free from discrimination.

Legends 2004 is a Greek football team promoting the message that children can integrate through football, and sport in general, without discrimination, whether based on social background, gender, disabilities, race, religion, etc. In this particular event, local football academies will welcome young refugees into their teams and then compete against each other under the guidance and mentorship of the Legends, all champions from EURO 2004.

#WeStandForHope

 

Each of the Legends will take a team under his wing to inspire the young athletes and provide knowledge, experience, and advice, and then guide them and their coaches through a series of games, which will culminate in a small and a big final.

#UnitedTogether

 

This is a social event inspired by love, humanity, and solidarity, in which football unites the children and helps to ease the integration of people that have survived the harshest life circumstances.

#WeCanDoBetter

 

UEFA general secretary Theodore Theodoridis, European Commission vice-president Margaritis Schinas and UEFA Foundation for Children general secretary Urs Kluser will all be attending the tournament, sending a strong message of support for integration and solidarity through the dynamics of football.

#MakeADifference

**********

Media representatives who wish to attend the event on 9 July must register here: legends2004@legends2004.com

For additional questions please contact Apostolis Lampos, press officer : Lampostolis@hotmail.gr

Call for projects 2022

Call for projects 2022

ON 27 JUNE 2022 THE UEFA FOUNDATION FOR CHILDREN LAUNCHes ITS CALL FOR PROJECTS which SEEK TO PROMOTE CHILDREN’S FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS ACROSS THE world.

 

This call for projects is aimed at any organisation that shares the values of the UEFA foundation and proposes practical measures to help children, in the areas of access to sport, health, education, employment, personal development and supporting vulnerable children.

Applications are invited from organisations anywhere in the world. Support is not limited to projects within Europe.

 

Eligibility criteria

The UEFA Foundation for Children will examine and evaluate each project.

The final decision on the selection of projects will be taken by the board of trustees in accordance with the foundation’s statutes and ethics code.

Specific conditions relating to funding are provided in the project criteria.

 

Apply now

To submit your project, click here. The application deadline is 31 July 2022 midnight.

Candidates will be notified of the progress of their application by the end of 2022.

 

 

 

ECA partners with UEFA Foundation to invite club applications for Ukrainian Relief Fund

ECA partners with UEFA Foundation to invite club applications for Ukrainian Relief Fund

The UEFA Foundation for Children will help ECA implement this humanitarian initiative by allocating donations to fund charitable projects

The European Club Association (ECA), in partnership with the UEFA Foundation for Children, has formally opened the process for member clubs to apply for donations from a €1m fund to help Ukrainians affected by the ongoing conflict. This Ukrainian Relief Fund was announced by ECA chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi during his opening address to the recent ECA General Assembly in Vienna on 28 March.

Until 17 June, each ECA member club can apply for a donation of between €25,000 and €50,000 to support humanitarian initiatives helping Ukrainian people who continue to be affected by the tragic circumstances in their country.

These funds will enable clubs to take meaningful, concrete action providing  opportunities for the integration and development of displaced children and their families affected by the war. Many clubs in regions with a high influx of refugees have already invested considerable resources in various projects.

ECA is partnering with the UEFA Foundation for Children to manage this humanitarian project. The applications will first be shortlisted by the newly established ECA Ukrainian Relief Committee, before the foundation makes the final decision based on its own assessment and procedures. ECA will then transfer the funds to the foundation, which will be responsible for allocating the money to the successful clubs.

“This generous support from ECA confirms football's solidarity with the victims of the war in Ukraine,” said Urs Kluser, the general secretary of the UEFA Foundation for Children. “It is a great help to the clubs that have selflessly taken in families with children or supported them through football activities over the last four months.”

Announcing the launch of the Ukrainian Relief Fund to ECA General Assembly, Al-Khelaifi remarked on the action already taken by many of its members:

I am very proud to announce that ECA will make an initial €1m available to support our members’ efforts to help the Ukrainian people. Many of our clubs have also offered to find a safe place for Ukrainian youth academy players, and we thank them for this.

(c)Aurelia Ciobanu- (6)
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