In July 2022, Salaam Baalak Trust launched a project aimed at providing football sessions and life skills training to children aged 12 to 18 living in Mumbai's slum communities. The program, led by an experienced team of licensed coaches, focuses on delivering a comprehensive curriculum that covers various crucial aspects of life such as health and hygiene, self-awareness, confidence building, problem solving, and decision making, all through the medium of football. The project is conducted in mixed age groups on a weekly basis in various locations.
Playing football and other sports can have a significant impact on a child’s physical development, such as the strengthening of bones and muscles, improved balance, flexibility, coordination, and immune system. In addition, participating in football can help enhance a child's social skills, such as communication, teamwork, management of emotions, confidence and social belonging.
In the future, the project aims to continue tracking the children’s progress, build a strong football team, and deliver even more quality sessions. The ultimate goal is to empower children through sports and help them develop into well-rounded individuals.
Berlinger and the Salaam Baalak Trust will continue their partnership to empower children through sports and aid in their development as well-rounded individuals. Together, they aim to make a lasting impact on the children's lives and create a brighter future for them.
