(Image Source: Homeless World Cup)
BY ANTOINE MATONDO
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Ever wonder how to beat homelessness? A ‘unique and pioneering social enterprise’, backed by Nike and funding from European soccer’s governing body, might have an answer.
“A unique event, uniting homeless all over the world since 2003, the Homeless World Cup uses football to give the world an opportunity to change their lives while also aiming to change the hearts and minds of governments, the media, the public and the key decision makers to create better solutions around the world. Now in it’s 9thedition…” (Video: UEFA.com)
From August 21st to 28th, the annual event is taking place in Paris where 64 nations are competing to become the Homeless World Cup Champion. But does it really create change?
“After the first event, we did some research on it and we found 80% were changing their lives, getting houses and jobs and so on and I did not believe it. I said these statistics are wrong because I’ve worked with homeless people for a long time and getting them back into society and move on is really hard today. I think 4 times we checked the numbers until, we said ‘Oh my goodness, we’re on to something here.’” (Video: Buzz Films)
Players, current and former, are noticing the psychological effects the event has on players.
“Becoming a part of the soccer team and having my friends and meeting people in here, I mean, I feel has gotten a lot better. My confidence started getting, coming back. I’m talking to people, I’m starting to open up. There is like a change.” (Video: Le 12e joueur)
While many rave about it, critics dispute the claims. Olivier Laffargue from the French Rue89, worries about exploitation.
“The statistics are vague, but the committee only showcases the winners … It is difficult to know the real change that happens in players. What happens 6 months later? … One wonders if having people play soccer simply because they are homeless really … brings them out of the situation…”
The Homeless World Cup was the subject of the 2008 documentary “Kicking it” and the new book “Home and Away” by Dave Bidini.
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Transcript by Newsy.
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