On October 17 in Poltava, within the framework of a joint project by the Ukrainian Football Association and the Donetsk Oblast Football Association, "Open Football Festivals" for children from Donbas took place. The goal of the event was to give children more joy, communication, and support through play and group activities. The next step is organizing regular children's football sections.

Photo by AFD

The event began with a solemn opening ceremony — the performance of the Ukrainian National Anthem and a moment of silence. This was followed by an energetic warm-up and work at location stations: children went around zones practicing ball control, coordination, goal kicks, and teamwork, participating in game relay races.

Photo by AFD

At separate locations, medical staff and safety instructors were present. They provided basic first aid information and talked about the basics of psychological support. On training models of weapons and explosive ordnance disposal items, experts explained safe behavior rules and action protocols in case such items are found.

Photo by AFD

As noted by the representative of AFD, volunteer leader Serhiy Holiachenko: "Open Football Festivals" is about a safe space and unity among children where the main thing is joy from playing and supporting each other.

Photo by AFD

Especially valuable is the fact that children who have temporarily relocated from Donbas can participate in the festival. Participation in this European social and educational project implemented by UFA and AFD helps them feel community support, find friends, and regain confidence.

The Ukrainian Football Association's "Open Football Festivals" project is:

• youth leadership in communities;
• psychosocial support for children of military personnel, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and war-affected children;
• unity and friendship among IDP children and local children, social integration;
• an inclusive environment where everyone participates, including children with special educational needs;
• knowledge of safety in wartime conditions;
• the philosophy of mass football — joy from playing instead of results at any cost;
• cultivation of a healthy lifestyle;
• volunteer development;
• activation of local communities through cross-sector networks (youth leaders, teachers, coaches, psychologists, safety experts, parents, local authorities, patrons, etc.).