Welcome to the Nutmeg, each week, you can expect: Exclusive previews of major football events – Spotlight features on top football creators – In-depth analysis of trending football culture. Delivered as consistently as Beckham’s crosses.

Tackling Homelessness with Football

Welcome to today’s edition of The Nutmeg! In this segment, we spotlight the remarkable work of Bob Humphreys, a lifelong soccer enthusiast who’s transforming lives in Montreal through the power of the beautiful game. With a mission to tackle homelessness head-on, Bob has built the CSSA program to foster community, confidence, and hope among the city’s most vulnerable populations.

In our exclusive Q&A, Bob reveals the bold strategies behind his success, the unexpected challenges of combining soccer with social impact, and the profound moments that make it all worthwhile.

Let’s get into it!

Interview with Bob Humphrey

Role in football: Program director of the CSSA Québec

Q&A:

Q: Can you share your journey from being passionate about soccer to becoming advocates for change through your organization? What inspired you to use soccer as a tool to address homelessness?  

A: I have been involved with football most of my life, supporting and playing. Since moving from the UK to Montreal QC, it became clear that there is a serious homelessness issue in the city. After watching The Beautiful Game on Netflix and understanding more about the Homeless World Cup organization, I felt completed to get more involved in helping the community. Football is an ideal tool to help folks build team work and build self-confidence and belief.

Q: What has been one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in combining soccer with social impact, and how did you overcome it?  

A: Good question, but I have to say the biggest challenge was finding indoor facilities to train and play. I came across Socceroof who have been fantastic. Their support towards the CSSA program has been a tremendous help in getting the program launched in Montreal. Not everyone is a soccer fan, but by meeting and talking with those at shelters, rehab centres, it soon became apparent that the positivity towards this program adds to so much value in helping homeless folks find a sense of purpose in life.

Q: Your organization has achieved a lot in addressing homelessness through soccer. What strategies do you use to connect with individuals who might not initially see soccer as a part of their lives or a tool for change?  

A: I like to insist that the CSSA program is not really about the soccer, it is far more about helping the most vulnerable in our community. The whole idea of building social skills and reintegration back into society is the key.

Q: Soccer plays a unique role in helping homeless individuals reintegrate into society. Why do you believe soccer, in particular, is such an effective tool for this?  

A: Good question, soccer is a worldwide known sport, played in most countries across the globe. It is an easy and affordable sports, just a ball is needed. Most of the population can relate to soccer and how to play it.

Q: Can you share the story of an individual whose life was significantly transformed by your programs?  

A: Well early days for me in Montreal. However, at the launch last December, some shelters brought along some of their homeless guys. When they first arrived at the Socceroof facility, their faces were one of bewilderment, not sure what this is all about! At the end of the soccer sessions, their faces were a picture, best photograph of the day, smiles, enjoyment.

Q: What is a typical day like working with the homeless and training them through your organization? What’s it like being immersed alongside the coaches?  

A: Again, early days for Montreal, but typically, we are looking to start the program in min-January. We are only looking to start small at first. One or two hours per week. The most important factor is ensuring a regular day and time for these folks. Working with them and the coaches will new new to me but priority number 1 is enjoyment. Helping them gain confidence within themselves. As i mentioned, it not so much about the sport but more about the social side of life.

Q: How do your programs foster a sense of community for participants? What role do inclusivity and connection play in achieving your mission?  

A: By building self-belief and more social skills, the program is designed to address this. The CSSA will work closely with housing organisations, job finding processes to help get the folks back on their feet.

Q: How has the broader soccer community (e.g., fans, players, clubs) supported your efforts, and what more could they do to help?  

A: The support from both federations in Canada, Soccer Canada and Soccer Quebec has been tremendous. They have both fully supported and endorsed the CSSA program. CF Montreal community Trust have shown their support and backing towards the program. The Montreal Roses, professional soccer team, have been fantastic in their support in helping the CSSA with putting together programs for the ladies' teams.

Bonus Insight

Q: What has been the most surprising or eye-opening thing you’ve learned while working at the intersection of soccer and social change?  

A: When I first started getting involved with the CSSA, i really didn't know where to start. My first port of call was making contact with the management of the shelters in the city. At first this was via email, then i decided to literally knock on doors to introduce the program. The response was amazing, support from day one.

Q: For soccer enthusiasts who want to make a difference, what advice would you give them? How can they support your mission or start their own initiatives?  

A: The CSSA program is in it's early stages in Quebec, volunteers is crucial for the program to be successful. Coaches, social workers etc. My advice would be to anyone wanting to get involved, would be, sure have a passion for your sport but remember that this is mainly to help the community. Build a network of supporters to help you along the way.

Q: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for your organization and the role of soccer in addressing societal issues like homelessness? Are there any upcoming projects or events you’re excited about, like the Homeless World Cup 2025?  

A: will be an extremely busy year for the CSSA. Our goal is to have the programs up and running in all provinces across the country. Regional, inter-provincial and national tournaments will start. The biggest goal, ensuring that Canada is represented at the 2025 Homeless world Cup in Oslo.