Football may have many forms, from five-a-side to street football, but at its heart, it remains a game capable of breaking down barriers, uniting people and building confidence and community.
Through our Local Community Fund, the cardfactory Foundation awarded a £5,000 grant to Street Football Wales (SFW), one of 50 charities the cardfactory Foundation supported this year through our external Local Community Fund round.
SFW uses the power of football to support people facing some of life’s toughest challenges, including homelessness, mental health struggles and social isolation. By creating inclusive spaces to play, connect and belong, they’re helping people rebuild confidence and rediscover purpose, one kick at a time.
Founded nearly 20 years ago, Street Football Wales grew from the global Homeless World Cup movement, which brings together people experiencing homelessness from all over the world to play football and form friendships beyond borders.
Today, it remains the only street football charity in Wales, running weekly sessions across the country and bringing together people from all walks of life like those living with disabilities, refugees, people in recovery or simply anyone feeling disconnected.
Interim Director at SFW, Beth Thomas, explains: “Football really can change lives. It’s not just about a game – it’s about belonging, confidence, friendship and hope.”
Changing lives, one goal at a time
For participants, joining Street Football Wales can be life-changing. Some start by simply turning up for a kickabout; many go on to represent Wales at the Homeless World Cup or become volunteers and mentors themselves.
The £5,000 grant from the cardfactory Foundation will help the charity remove barriers to participation, covering essentials like venue hire, coaching, travel and training costs, ensuring no one is left out because of circumstance.
It will also support SFW’s fast-growing women’s inclusion programme, which has seen more women and girls than ever before take part. For some, it’s their first step back into the community; for others, it’s an opportunity to represent their country.
Beth adds: “We’re a small organisation, so every penny goes directly to supporting people. This funding helps us reach those who need it most – and keeps our sessions running week after week.”
From local grassroots projects to national charities, cardfactory Foundation Local Community Grants support organisations tackling real issues and helping people through life’s challenges. The next public round of the Local Community Fund is expected to open in 2026, creating more opportunities for charities to seek support for their vital causes.
Discover more about Street Football Wales and their incredible work: https://streetfootballwales.org
