KNYSNA NEWS - Oupad United FC from Hlalani recently started an initiative to help struggling families from Nekkies, Oupad and Hlalani.

The football team was formed in response to growing concerns over crime, drug abuse, gangsterism and gender-based violence in the communities.

This gave the local youth a positive alternative through football. Team member Siyambonga Ngonyama said although they started out as a soccer team, they have moved on to become a movement of hope in the community. 

The players of Oupad United want to make a real difference and be much more than just another soccer team. 

"Team members now regularly run clean-up campaigns and help where they can. Recently, we partnered with ComeMission, a local ministry church, to assist an elderly family living in a dangerous, crumbling home.

"After years of waiting for help, the family finally received a safe, warm house - thanks to ComeMission for their assistance. We're proud to bring hope and a smile back to this family," said Ngonyama.

The team is grateful to everyone who helped make their initiative possible. Next, they hope to provide warm school uniforms to needy learners and to start a community soup kitchen. 

Contributions of soccer equipment or support for these projects would be most appreciated. They also clean up areas in their community and cut grass.

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