Yesterday, I attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the soccer field UPA built in Hitten Camp, also known as Marka Camp by UNRWA. More than 50,000 refugees reside in this camp, many of whom originate from Gaza.

“Young people make up two-thirds of the population of the camp… and they lack public spaces such as entertainment centers and youth facilities due to the scarcity of financial resources in the area,” said Saleh Abdel Aziz Alnajjar, Director of the Camp Services Committee.

Upon the request of the Camp Services Committee, UPA constructed a new soccer field in Hitten Camp, granting the youth access to a recreational facility on a more regular basis. UPA also distributed athletic gear and equipment such as soccer shoes, jerseys, soccer balls, and nets to about 40 young camp residents.

While attending the ceremony, I also got to meet Yasser Alawadat, a camp resident and an avid soccer player whose family migrated to the camp from the West Bank. He said the camp “has a number of promising athletes… all we need is for someone to believe in us.”

This spirit of loving life drives UPA’s work and inspires all of us. Please consider giving to UPA today to continue the work that helps Palestinians find a way to a better life.

With gratitude,

Nisreen Abu Alshaikh

UPA Programs Coordinator, Jordan