During last year’s historic FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Jordan, a pledge was made that, for every goal scored, 150 footballs would be donated to vulnerable communities across the country. A total of 104 goals followed – equating to over 15,000 adidas footballs.

The process of delivering on that promise began earlier this week when the Jordan Football Association (JFA) in partnership with FIFA, the Asian Football Development Project (AFDP) and adidas launched a football donation campaign for boys and girls in the country’s refugee camps and more deprived areas.

The first phase of the campaign was held on 15 May, at the Zaatari Refugee Camp, east of Mafraq Governorate, benefiting over 7000 boys and girls from the refugee community.

This camp had already been a symbol of FIFA and the JFA’s bid to ensure a genuine and lasting legacy from the U-17 Women’s World Cup. The trophy itself was taken there during a nationwide tour ahead of the tournament and then 250 girls from the camp were guests of honour at the opening match and ceremony.

In addition to refugee camps, JFA and the AFDP will deliver the adidas footballs to children in refugee host communities and marginalised cities and villages.

Besides supporting refugees and children from disadvantaged communities, the donation will also promote the development of women’s football through its programs that use football as a tool for social development.