AFGHANISTAN: FOOTBALL PROJECT SERVING YOUNG AFGHAN REFUGEES

Millions of us around the world love footbalL. With the women’s world cup fast approaching we’re hoping Both England and Ireland come good with some decent performances!

But we also know football isn’t just about the winning. We love playing too – it brings us together and can be the basis for amazing friendships. That’s definitely true for around 140 young people who have fled Afghanistan and are being supported by Open Doors partners in a neighbouring country.

“We could see there was an opportunity to reach out to the Afghan refugees and support them,” says Brother Ismael*, an Open Doors local partner. “The situation for them is very difficult. In our region, governments do not officially recognise the presence of such a large number of refugees and don’t provide the necessary social support to them.” 

It’s having a hugely damaging impact on children, who often witness the stress and hardship of daily life brings on their families; they see the hopelessness in their parents’ eyes and watch their siblings go to bed hungry. Some children have even considered suicide to escape from it all. 

“The shocking reality is that three out of every ten of these refugee children say they want to end their lives because they spend most of their time indoors out of fear,” adds Brother Ishmael. 

Football, fun and faith

Against this backdrop, Brother Ishmael started a football based project to bring some of these young people together. Five times a week, around 140 boys and girls meet on a local Astro turf pitch to train, play matches and build friendships. By pulling on a Messi or Neymar shirt, or wearing the colours of Afghanistan, this project is helping young people feel their lives are getting back to some sense of normality.

The initiative’s impact reaches wider than football. Weekly Bible study groups have been formed, as has a house church after 15-20 of the young people gave their lives to Jesus! It’s also built trust with parents, which has led to the provision of practical support. Given that these refugees are not permitted to work, the help is invaluable. 

“We help with food packages,” continues Brother Ishmael. “These food packages help a lot of refugees survive. In addition, we distribute the necessary clothes, blankets and hygiene items. We also provide assistance for some people with medical needs.”

It’s an amazing impact and none of it would be possible without your prayers and generosity – thank you!