Donate Directly, an AI-powered fundraising platform, is inviting schools, youth groups, football teams, workplaces and community organisations across the UK to join a campaign raising money for footballs, trainers, sports kits and other equipment for children living in conflict-affected or low-income communities overseas.

The online fundraiser, now live on the Donate Directly platform, enables supporters to create individual fundraising pages and collect donations to provide sports equipment for children abroad. 

According to Donate Directly, the national appeal is initially focused on supporting children in Gaza and Pakistan, with the organisation aiming to expand access to organised play through football. 

Iqar Ul Hassan, founder of Donate Directly, said: “Through our work in some of the poorest communities in Pakistan, we regularly meet children who lack access to basic recreational facilities and safe spaces to play.” 

“Football is a low-cost way to encourage exercise and social interaction,” he added. “This campaign is intended to give more children the chance to play and to take part in global football events that many of their peers are already following.” 

The campaign is based on the principle that structured play and sport can support children’s physical, social and emotional development. 

On its website, Donate Directly suggests fundraising activities such as charity football matches, World Cup-themed bake sales, £1 match screenings in schools, penalty shootout competitions and sponsored football challenges. 

Shakira Rahman, young people’s ambassador at Donate Directly, said: “Major football tournaments draw global attention, and we would like children in Gaza and Pakistan to be able to follow and participate in that interest in ways that are appropriate to their circumstances.