Working alongside the Homeless World Cup Foundation, the Scottish clubs will cover Ukraine’s travel expenses to the US-hosted tournament, marking the 18th edition of the Homeless World Cup and its first time being held on American soil. The tournament is set to take place from 8 to 15 July 2023 at California State University, Sacramento. The university will also accommodate the international players on campus.

The Homeless World Cup is an annual international football tournament that allows teams of men and women who have experienced homelessness to represent their countries. Over the years, it has been staged in prestigious cities globally, raising awareness about the global issue of homelessness.

‘The Way home’ has been a partner and worked alongside the Homeless World Cup for many years and have been an inaugural part of the tournament since 2004 and were winners of the Homeless World Cup in Milan 2009.

From Paris to Cardiff, Glasgow to Milan, Edinburgh to Mexico City and Melbourne to Cape Town, this world class tournament has been played in some exceptional cities and venues to bring awareness and understanding to this global issue – homelessness.

Mel Young, co-founder, and Homeless World Cup president, said: “It’s fantastic news that the five Scottish clubs have come together to ensure Ukraine, one of our key partners can get to and compete in Sacramento, The Way Home has continued to work in extremely difficult conditions in Odessa.

“The Homeless World Cup always look to support our Member Countries however we can, and we look forward to welcoming Ukraine, who have fielded a team every year at the tournament since 2004 to Sacramento and the US for the 18th edition of the Homeless World Cup.

Mr Young continued: “All five clubs didn’t hesitate when asked to help our Ukrainian partner with their journey and we are incredibly grateful for their support in making this dream a reality to those players who will represent Ukraine on the international stage in Sacramento this July.

“I’m proud of the five Scottish clubs and the generosity they have shown by coming together to support Ukraine. This demonstrates how impactful football and sport can be in making a difference to the lives of so many.”

Aberdeen’s chief executive, Alan Burrows, said: “Football is a game for all and as a club we were delighted to play our part in supporting Ukraine’s journey to Sacramento to participate in the 2023 Homeless World Cup.

“The ongoing conflict in Ukraine shouldn’t be a barrier for those looking to participate in sport and the Homeless World Cup is the perfect example of how football can inspire and change lives for the better.

“We wish them all the best in the tournament.”

Celtic FC Foundation chief executive, Tony Hamilton, said: “Working with the homeless community is a regular feature of what we do here, and we are delighted that we can assist with this in some small way. “Football is universal and the Homeless World Cup is everything good about the game that we all love. I hope this year’s event in the USA is a great success for everyone involved.”

Chief executive of Hearts, Andrew McKinlay, said: “We’re delighted to have supported the Ukrainian team at this year’s Homeless World Cup. Everyone connected with Hearts knows well the power of football and how it can be a truly positive force in our lives.

“The conflict in Ukraine, and the widespread homelessness seen across the planet, affects us all. Initiatives like the Homeless World Cup are vital in raising awareness and supporting this global issue.

“Everyone at Heart of Midlothian wishes the teams, organisers and all participants the very best when the tournament begins in California next month.”

Hibernian FC’s non-executive chairman Malcolm McPherson said: “The relationship that our club and supporters have with Ukraine is quite unique. Whether that’s through the work done by the Hibernian Community Foundation or through Dnipro Kids, we have all been committed to helping Ukrainian people through this incredible difficult time.

“We’re proud to be able to continue that support by backing the Ukrainian team at this year’s Homeless World Cup, which shines a light on two great issues that affect everyone worldwide; the conflict in Ukraine and global homelessness.

“Football is an incredibly powerful sport, and initiatives like the Homeless World Cup can inspire, enforce change, and raise awareness of these global issues.

“Everyone at Hibernian FC wishes everyone taking part in the tournament great success.”

Connal Cochrane, Rangers Charity Foundation chief executive said: “What a wonderful way to come together for a common cause. I hope the Ukrainian team create powerful memories and many new friendships in Sacramento.”