Xavier Shelter Soccer Program

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General Information:

  • Days of Operation: Fridays (see month-to-month schedule below)
  • Hours of operation: 5:30pm–7:30pm (time subject to change, advance notice will be given)
  • Location: Xavier High School Commons Gym, 30 West 16th St. (b/w 5th & 6th Aves.)
  • Volunteer Hours: 5:30pm–7:30pm
  • Participant Contact: Cassandra Agredo, cagredo@sfxavier.org or 212-627-2100, x208
  • Volunteer Contact: Eoin O’Sullivan, xaviersheltersoccer@gmail.com

Description of Program:

“I don’t want to say it’s a return to being normal, but it makes me feel like myself again. Two weeks ago, that was, like, the first time in a while that I forgot. I forgot where I was and what was going on.”

-Chris Lodgson of Ward Island’s homeless soccer team speaking with the New York Times

Xavier Mission is proud to announce the creation of the pilot Xavier Shelter Soccer Program to benefit the clients of the Drop-In Centers associated with the Emergency Shelter Network, the city’s faith-based shelter system.  Through the vision of a Xavier shelter volunteer, the generosity of his soccer-playing friends, and the kindness of Xavier High School, we are able to offer this new program to those individuals whose lives have been thrown off course by the trauma of homelessness.

Building the self-respect and the confidence to stand on one’s own two feet again is a less tangible benefit than providing food or shelter. However, the role of sport continues to grow as a way of engaging homeless individuals in positive activity.

Homeless soccer programs have been very successful in raising awareness of homeless issues and improving the image of homeless people to the general public.  This growing awareness and recognition of outreach work in the community leads to new partnerships and opportunities, which in turn can make a difference in the lives of homeless individuals.

These programs can give players new motivations in life and improve their social relations.  They can allow homeless individuals to transcend stereotypes and feel like themselves again.  Building mutual respect through team sports can draw marginalized individuals back into society.  The program provides a safe place to improve socialization skills and enter an environment of cooperation.  Sports also contribute to overall health and wellness due in part to improved dietary planning, improved mental condition and reduced substance abuse.  Ultimately, homeless participants can acquire skills and resources necessary to reintegrate into their communities, a benefit to all those who are involved.

Participant Information and Schedule

Requirements for Participation:

  • Clients of one of the five NYC Drop-In Centers affiliated with the Emergency Shelter Network: Olivieri, Grand Central Mainchance (GCN), Project Hospitality, CAMBA and the Living Room (BronxWorks) referred by a drop-in center case worker
  • Men over the age of 18 (we hope to be able to start a women’s team soon—check back for updates!
  • Strict adherence to the rules and regulations set forth by Xavier Mission
  • The desire to engage with other individuals in a cooperative, supportive, non-threatening environment
  • The desire to learn, practice and play the sport of soccer

Schedule: All sessions below are 5:30pm–7:30pm

  • September:  9/9 (FIRST SESSION), 9/16, 9/23, 9/30
  • October: 10/14, 10/21, 10/28 (Please note: there is no session on 10/7 due to the Columbus Day holiday)

Other Information:

  • Please wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing
  • Sneakers MUST be worn
  • There is no smoking at any time during the session
  • Drugs, alcohol and weapons are expressly prohibited
  • Participants who stay until at least 6:30pm (and who must leave due to curfew) will receive a free, round-trip MetroCard
  • Anyone concerned about catching the bus to a shelter should have their case worker contact Cassandra (number above)
  • Anyone interested in playing who does not have the proper attire should contact Cassandra

Volunteer & Donor Information

We are seeking volunteers:

  • With or without soccer skills to assist with overseeing each session
  • With soccer skills to assist with instruction

We are seeking donors:

  • With connections that may be able to provide gear or equipment
  • With the ability and desire to provide funding for the program

All those interested in volunteering or who have equipment or gear donations should contact Eoin O’Sullivan at xaviersheltersoccer@gmail.com for specific information.

Donors can click the PURPLE “Donate Now to Xavier Mission” button (located on the right-hand side toward the top of this page) to make a donation.  If using the online form, please specify “Xavier Mission Soccer Program” when directed.  If writing a check, please indicate “Xavier Mission Soccer Program” in the memo line.  Thank you very much for your support!

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