New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded $21,060 to Ngongotahā AFC Rotorua, to equip their free CR1 (Children’s First) football programme with new goals.

Running for 20 weeks each summer, the CR1 project teaches kids of all ages football fundamentals and life skills through teamwork.

The project is based on the life of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was brought up in poverty, but through talent, good life decisions and hard work became a world-class footballer.

To ensure all interested kids can attend, the club provides free transport to more than 100 children to and from the programme, which is located at Tamarahi Reserve, Ngongotahā.

“Our mission is to make football accessible to kids from families who might struggle to fit sport into their family budget,” Ngongotahā AFC club president Aaron Lawrence said.

“This generous grant from NZCT helps us provide new goals, allowing the children to practice and develop their skills.”

NZCT’s general manager of grants, marketing and communications Ben Hodges adds: “Our hope is that the kids can then take these holistic life skills back into their communities.

“We are proud to support Ngongotahā AFC’s CR1 project – their dedication to offering pathways for less fortunate families is truly admirable.

“NZCT is grateful for the responsible gaming fundraising partnerships we share with our Rotorua venues Kaspers, Mo’s Bar, and the West End Tavern that made our grant possible.”