On a crisp day in early 2024, an energetic group of children stood on a deteriorating field adjacent to their Blessed Klymenty and Andrey Sheptytskyi School gymnasium in Lviv, Ukraine*. They eagerly gathered as their beloved Salesian priest approached them carrying a soccer ball. What he was about to say would spark a huge reaction.

His announcement was very good news for the more than 400 girls and boys who regularly use the outdoor space for their recreational activities. On that day, they learned that the muddy, worn-out field where they had been playing soccer would soon be transformed. Their dreams of a new soccer field would finally come true! And it was made possible thanks to the generosity of our compassionate donors who funded this project.

The neglected field was in major disrepair, lacked netting for the goalposts, and was unsuitable for youth to play on. “There were lots of holes, a lot of bugs running around,” described Lukyan, a 12-year-old student at the school. “When I found out they could make a new field, I was very happy.”

Recently, construction of the new field was completed, proper fencing was installed, turf was laid down, and new soccer equipment was purchased. The inaugural celebration brought together the entire community! Blue and yellow balloons decorated the space, a young boy cut the red ribbon, and everyone streamed through the gate circling the lush green grass. The field was blessed, speeches were made, and one-by-one, enthusiastic children took turns kicking soccer balls into the nets.

The goal is to welcome even more children from nearby “Mariapolis” — a modular city run by the Salesians, composed of prefabricated buildings that offer temporary refuge to families displaced by the war — so they can enjoy the field as well. “These kids have been through so much over the past three years. Being uprooted from their homes because of the war and struggling to get through each day is a hardship no child should have to endure,” explains Father Michael Conway, Director of Salesian Missions.

To ensure that all the children have fair time for enjoying their sports activities, coaches are working with our missionaries to organize a schedule for using the field. “I’m delighted we could fund a project that brings a tremendous amount of joy to an entire community. I’m also humbled by the outpouring of support we received from our caring donors who made this dream possible,” said Fr. Mike.

Watch this heartwarming video to see how the neglected soccer field was transformed into a safe, vibrant space for children to play, laugh and simply be kids again.

Our mission is to bring hope to children and families whose lives have been torn apart by war, violence and conflict. What’s your mission?

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.