El ChorRillo, Panama | 2022

The Beautiful scars of El Chorrillo
May, 2022

In May of 2022, UTF made the journey to El Chorrillo, Panama. A forgotten city of Panama with a population of just over 18,000 people that still bears the scars of the U.S invasion. An area rife with poverty and infamous for its gang violence, El Chorrillo’s social and economic problems mirror those of many urban areas throughout Central and South America. With the help of the U.S Embassy & in partnership with Local in PTY, United Through Football was able to inspire over 175 children through the beautiful game of soccer. Local in PTY is a local organization that provides a safe haven for children while they use tourism to fight against poverty, drugs, gang violence and give opportunities to the children to grow and leave a lasting impact on their own communities.

Through generous donations, fundraisers and equipment drives, we were able to ensure every child would receive an athletic bag, water bottle, t-shirt, soccer ball, as well as pair of soccer cleats. The embassy helped provide snacks and hydration for the children who participated in a 2-day soccer clinic ran by Olf Mouyaka, Theo Booras and former Panamanian Professional soccer player Taylor Rice.

It’s obvious to us what the game means to children all around the world, and we would like to thank all of our supporters for making me what do possible.

Sincerely,
The UTF team
#HereToInspire