Five Scottish Premiership sides including Hearts and Hibs have come together to aid and support the Ukrainian team’s journey to the Homeless World Cup.
The homeless World Cup is an annual football event that allows homeless or ex-homeless people from many countries to represent their national team at the international stage. The tournament has existed since 2004 and includes teams from around the globe such as Ukraine and India, and brings awareness to the cause of solving homelessness.
The tournament has previously been hosted in Edinburgh as well as Glasgow, however this year’s 2023 tournament will be hosted in July in Sacramento, USA.
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Scotland’s top five clubs, Aberdeen, Celtic, Hearts, Hibs and Rangers have all donated to the Ukrainian team to help fund this year’s journey to the Capital of California. This was done through the Homeless World Cup Foundation and without these donations, Ukraine would not have been capable of sending a team.
Mel Young, Homeless World Cup President stated her gratitude for the support received: “All five clubs didn’t hesitate when asked to help our Ukrainian partner with their journey and we are incredibly grateful for their support in making this dream a reality to those players who will represent Ukraine on the international stage in Sacramento this July.”
“I’m proud of the Scottish clubs and the generosity they have shown by coming together to support Ukraine. This demonstrates how impactful football and sport can be in making a difference to the lives of so many.”
Andrew McKinlay, Hearts’ Chief Executive expressed his pleasure in helping the Ukrainian side: “we’re delighted to have supported the Ukrainian team at this year’s Homeless World Cup. Everyone connected with Hearts knows well the power of football and how it can be a truly positive force in our lives.”
“Everyone at Heart of Midlothian wishes the teams, organisers and all participants the very best when the tournament begins in California next month.”
Hibernian FC’s Non-Executive Chairman Malcolm McPherson, announced his delight at the support given: “The relationship that our club and supporters have with Ukraine is quite unique. Whether that’s through the work done by the Hibernian Community Foundation or through Dnipro Kids, we have all been committed to helping Ukrainian people through this difficult time.”
“We’re proud to be able to continue that support by backing the Ukrainian team at this year’s Homeless World Cup, which shines a light on two great issues that affect everyone worldwide; the conflict in Ukraine and global homelessness.”
“Everyone at Hibernian FC wishes everyone taking part in the tournament great success.”
