The goal of this day is to draw the attention of humanity to the problem of mine threat, prevent countries from using mines and other explosive devices, increase public awareness about mine safety, as well as attract attention to the need for funding and technical support for demining territories that remain due to war and hinder the return of refugees to their homeland.

Today, Ukraine is considered one of the most affected countries in the world by mines. Therefore, conducting activities to prevent mine danger, demining, and supporting victims is a top priority for the international community. Because information about how to handle explosive items safely and personal safety can save the most valuable thing—human life.

With support from the U.S. Department of State, the Spirit of Soccer Ukraine project, implemented by the Amateur Football Association in cooperation with the Ukrainian Football Association, is spreading information among the public, especially among children, in Ukraine.

An innovative training program on the risk of using explosive items was completed by 30 coaches from Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Chernihiv regions; the best among them continue to spread EORE rescue messages through football activities in their respective regions.

Sports is a powerful and effective tool that helps introduce children and youth to mine safety rules, stabilize psycho-emotional state under war conditions, and motivate further engagement in football.

Active players of the national football team of Ukraine have joined the "No Mines" initiative, serving as an example for younger generations and calling on the international football community to support this initiative.

Photo by UAF press service

Today, young football players from Luhansk Children's Sports School and FC "Avangard" (Luhansk) also actively participated in the project. Along with coaches, they learned to be careful and remember key EORE rescue messages; received useful information from DSNSS employees.

The work of the coaches was appreciated by Scott Lee, founder and long-time director of the international organization Spirit of Soccer, who also visited this event together with experts from the organization, supported by Mayor Sergiy Zelensky and head of the regional football association Viktor Kovalenko.

From organizers, children received football balls and training equipment; after the festival ended—sweet gifts.

Photo hoff.org.ua