GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., June 2017 – With more than 43 million people worldwide forcibly displaced because of conflict and persecution, Bethany Christian Services, a global nonprofit organization committed to bringing and keeping families together, is raising awareness for the refugee crisis by hosting its 4th annual Refugee World Cup in Grand Rapids. On Saturday, June 17, hundreds of refugees who have relocated to West Michigan from war-torn countries will be participating alongside local soccer players in Bethany’s annual 12-team soccer tournament.

“Anyone who has seen images from Syria recently knows the devastation refugee families – including many young children – are facing as they flee for their lives,” said Christian Hawkins, Refugee Advocacy Specialist. “The Refugee World Cup is an opportunity for those locally who have been through similar circumstances to promote the importance of supporting foreign families in their greatest hour of need, while continuing to build relationships in the West Michigan community.”

Refugee players originate from 10 countries and a variety of cultures, including Africa United (primarily Congolese), Burma, Vietnam, and Sudan, as well as unaccompanied refugee minors from Central and South America. The one-day tournament, taking place at the Gainey Athletic Complex in Grand Rapids, features a total of 19 games with play shortened into 25-minute halves.

The Refugee World Cup is made possible through a variety of co-sponsors, including Michigan Turkey Producers, the largest employer of refugees in West Michigan.

“We take pride in participating in this event every year,” said Dan Lennon, CEO, Michigan Turkey Producers. “Nobody should be without a country to call home, somewhere they can feel safe and raise a family without worry of persecution. Bethany’s event brings attention to these important issues in a welcoming and comfortable environment that is invaluable not only to those who have been relocated to our country, but to our entire community as well.”

New to this year’s event, Bethany is introducing a silent auction to raise funds for refugee resettlement services. A public event, Refugee World Cup attendees can also enjoy a variety of ethnic foods from on-site vendors.

Bethany has helped resettle 6,723 refugee adults and children since 1975. Of the more than 43 million refugees around the world, less than one percent of these individuals find their way to the U.S. Bethany aids refugees with medical care, education, transportation, and employment.

For more information on the Refugee World Cup visit Bethany.org/grandrapids or to learn how you can help refugees visit Bethany.org/refugee.

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