Philadelphia Union Announce “Dre Saves” Initiative To Donate Soccer Balls To Youth Soccer Programs

Philadelphia Union, in partnership with Philadelphia Union Foundation and MLS Works, today announced their “Dre Saves” initiative. A donation of 200 soccer balls were distributed to assist in new local health and safety regulations that require every child to have their own soccer ball in organized soccer programs.

TUDN partnered with MLS Works and Allstate at the beginning of the MLS is Back Tournament to pledge $500 for every save made during a TUDN or Univision broadcast during the tournament in an initiative labeled “Every Save Makes A Difference.” The beneficiaries were to support local efforts in social justice, COVID-19 relief or initiatives that make positive impacts on the lives in Hispanic communities.

With Andre Blake’s 14 saves during ESMAD matches over the course of the tournament, the Union earned $7,000 USD. In their newly named initiative, “Dre Saves,” Philadelphia Union Foundation, the club’s chosen beneficiary, was able to take a portion of the donation to donate 200 balls to Chester Upland Youth Soccer and Super Liga. The club will continue to donate equipment to youth soccer organizations throughout the year.

The foundation continues to build upon one of its pillars to build safe spaces for all to play soccer and provide under-served communities with access to the game and related programming. With the new health and safety protocols set in place due to COVID-19, youth soccer programs are requiring children to each have their own ball to avoid sharing and the potential spreading of germs. Recognizing the need for soccer balls for programming to continue in these communities, the Foundation was able to donate 200 balls in their first ever “Dre Saves” initiative.