Distribution of sports equipment to Palestinian camps in North Lebanon

 

On Monday, January 18, CCPA Lebanon distributed sports equipment for the two popular clubs in the Palestinian refugee camps Nahr al-Bared and al-Bedawi in Tripoli.

Eight coaches from the two camps, who had earlier taken part in CCPA training seminars, met in Tripoli with CCPA staff to receive footballs, mini goals and other kinds of equipment for the training in the newly established clubs.

 

Khalil, a coach from Nahr al-Bared was very happy to receive the equipment: “This comes just in the right time! We have more than 150 children at our trainings, but very little equipment. We are looking forward to getting started with all these new things.”

 

There is a big need for recreational activities for children in the camps, which are in a very bad condition. Two and a half years ago, the Nahr al-Bared camp was completely destroyed in a war between the Lebanese army and militant groups. The inhabitants of the camp were forced to flee to the al-Bedawi camp, which was already overcrowded. Most of the Palestinians from Nahr al-Bared are now back in the camp, where the CCPA coaches are doing a great job organizing trainings for boys and girls of the camp.

 

Though movements in and out of the camps are subject to rigid security measures, the clubs inclusion in CCPA’s network of Popular Clubs will provide new opportunities for the camps’ children and coaches. While taking part in the mini-tournaments, now being developed across Lebanon, the Palestinian refugee children and coaches will meet with children and coaches of the network outside the camps.