After enduring years of homelessness and battling addiction, a man named Brendan is set to represent Ireland in the Homeless World Cup taking place in South Korea this month. He recounts his days of sleeping rough in the Dublin city centre and Tallaght, revealing there was a time he felt he had “thrown in the towel.”
He remembers feeling emotionally and physically depleted, even contemplating joining his deceased brother. However, with the unconditional support of his two sisters, Brendan managed to get help and started his road to recovery with the assistance of Merchant’s Quay Ireland. This charity is dedicated to aiding individuals who are homeless or grappling with addiction.
After his involvement with this charity, Brendan participated in The Irish Homeless Street Leagues. This organisation operates 10 football leagues across the country, working to unite people who are socio-economically disadvantaged or socially alienated.
Brendan disclosed, “Four of us were selected for the trials to compete in the Homeless World Cup in South Korea.” Brendan emphasised that it’s possible to attain anything in life if one stays free from drugs. “My family never gave up on me even when I did.” Now, he is thankful for the solid support network around him, and he currently holds a job.
The annual Homeless World Cup encourages grassroots organisation participation, utilising football to combat homelessness and isolation. This year’s competition, held in Seoul, marks the first time the event is hosted in Asia with 64 teams from 49 countries participating.
Carol Casey, who heads communications and fundraising at Merchant’s Quay Ireland, spoke highly of Brendan. She said his journey embodies the power of hope. She expressed her immense pride in Brendan, highlighting the resilience shown by their clients to overcome adversity and addiction. She also noted that we should celebrate periods of recovery. As Brendan and the team head to South Korea, she wished them the best.