By Julia Lewis
After more than a year of dedication, collaboration and grassroots growth across communities nationwide, the Canadian Street Soccer Association (CSSA) is proud to announce its new status as an official registered charity in Canada.
This milestone marks an important step in the organization’s evolution, and it reflects the collective commitment of the staff, program coordinators, volunteers, advisors, mentors and partners who have helped build street soccer programs across the country.
“Becoming a registered charity is a defining step forward for Canadian Street Soccer,” said Hossam Khedr, CSSA CEO. “It allows us to grow sustainably, expand into more communities and strengthen our ability to use soccer as a platform for dignity, connection and real change in people’s lives.”
Homeless World Cup 2025
Built by Community
CSSA is powered by the people who show up every week in their communities.
Across the country, program leaders and volunteers have created safe, welcoming spaces where individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and social isolation can reconnect through sport, community and opportunity.
Through these efforts, CSSA has already been able to:
- Rebuild national street soccer programs across Canada
- Support players in securing housing and employment
- Help individuals reconnect with family and community
- Return Canada to the Homeless World Cup after a ten-year absence
The impact of this work reaches far beyond the pitch — creating pathways for stability, confidence and belonging.
CSSA Montreal, Quebec Program
What Charitable Status Means
With charitable status, CSSA can now access additional funding opportunities, philanthropic partnerships and resources that will support long-term sustainability and national program growth.
This milestone will help the organization expand street soccer programs across Canada and reach even more individuals who can benefit from the power of sport and community.
Looking Ahead in 2026
As CSSA enters this new chapter, the organization has set ambitious goals for the coming year:
- Expanding programs into two additional provinces
- Hosting the Canadian Street Soccer National Tournament and Conference in Montreal in June
- Representing Canada at the Homeless World Cup in Mexico City
- Strengthening local programs while building long-term financial sustainability
These goals reflect a growing national movement that believes soccer can be a powerful catalyst for inclusion, connection and transformation.
Homeless World Cup Parade 2025
Join Us in Building the Future of Street Soccer in Canada
Becoming a registered charity marks the beginning of an exciting new phase of growth for the Canadian Street Soccer Association — and this work depends on the support of partners, volunteers and supporters. Working together, we are building a movement where soccer becomes a platform for dignity, connection and opportunity.
There are many ways to get involved:
Donate – Support life-changing opportunities for players across Canada.
$500: Supports one participant in our program for a full year, helping create pathways to housing, employment, or training.
$1,000: Sends one selected player to our National Tournament this June — a celebration of achievement that boosts confidence and marks an important step toward their next phase.
$3,000: Sends one player to the Homeless World Cup in Mexico this October, a life-changing experience that builds confidence and leadership, followed by continued support from CSSA to help them step into roles within our organization or with partner groups.
Partner – Collaborate with CSSA to create meaningful community impact
Volunteer – Support local programs and national events
Share our mission – Help spread the word about street soccer in Canada
Learn more, donate, or get involved: www.canadianstreetsoccer.ca