Ottawa, Ontario - The Canadian Soccer Association (CSA), in partnership with SOS Children's Villages Canada (SOS), are calling on soccer associations and clubs, nation-wide, to aid by sending soccer equipment to Sri Lanka's tsunami children in March.
The CSA is asking that soccer associations and clubs, across the country, help collect soccer boots, balls, shin pads, uniforms and other soccer apparel to be sent to Sri Lanka's SOS children. This program, initiated by CSA Technical Programs Manager, David Benning, on behalf of the CSA National Coaching staff, is an attempt to add to the global tsunami relief efforts.
"Children gain so much from playing sports; sportsmanship, making new friends, learning to be a team player, physical exercise, but most importantly to set aside the immediate problems they face and perhaps, smile," said Andy Sharpe, President of the Canadian Soccer Association. "Through a natural disaster such as the Tsunami, its impact on a generation of children is unimaginable. Humanity has united to show such great compassion and this is an ideal opportunity for the kids of Canada to reach out to those who have nothing and let them know we are still here and we care. There has been a tremendous amount of support financially by so many. This is a simple initiative; by donating equipment such as soccer shoes, running shoes, soccer balls, and uniforms we are attempting in a more direct manner help the healing process through sport."
With a theme of "Kids Giving to Kids," it is the hope of the CSA and SOS Children's Villages that the provision of soccer equipment may allow children affected by the tsunami disaster to heal through sport. Allowing children to engage with their peers through physical coordination, team work, and cooperation, will contribute to having a sense of normalcy returned.
"Children throughout Sri Lanka have been devastated by this Tsunami. In some cases, they've not only lost their homes and possessions, but also their parents, siblings and playmates," said Boyd McBride, National Director of SOS Children's Villages Canada. "Giving soccer kits to these children will not only give them an opportunity for light-hearted fun, but will also provide therapy through play. Play therapy has proven to contribute to the recovery of traumatized children. The Canadian Soccer Association's initiative will help these children cope with the many challenges they are facing."
Collections of soccer equipment and apparel will begin immediately, and once gathered, all items will be sent to a central location, from which a container will be shipped to Sri Lanka in early March. The CSA would like to thank the York Region Soccer Association of Ontario and its member Clubs who have already stepped forward to participate in this effort.
For more information regarding the "Kids Giving to Kids" relief effort, please contact Tanya Hodge at the CSA National Office, (613) 237-7678 or thodge@soccercan.ca.