The Homeless World Cup and Emmaus: changing lives
When the whistle blows at the end of the Fifa World Cup final on 11th July, life will get back to normal for the millions of people around the world who follow the beautiful game. But fans won't have to wait four years for the next international tournament; the Homeless World Cup kicks off in Brazil, just two months later in September.
The Homeless World Cup is an annual football tournament played by teams of homeless and excluded people from around the world. The benefits of the programme, even for players not selected for their national team, are many: the chance to be part of a team, improved self esteem, a healthier lifestyle and a sense of purpose.
Living and working in Emmaus Communities brings similar benefits: a sense of belonging, regained self respect, better physical and mental health.
Emmaus is delighted that Mel Young, the President and co-founder of the Homeless World Cup, will give the keynote speech at the Emmaus Federation Assembly, the annual conference for Emmaus in the UK, in July.
More information
Some Homeless World Cup facts:
1200 players trialled for the England Team, 600 for the Scotland Team.
Current holders are Ukraine, Scotland were champions in 2007.
Top football clubs like Manchester United play an active part in the training programme.
In 2011, the Homeless World Cup will take place in Paris.
Published on 10th June, 2010
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