Local soccer enthusiasts are urged to rally behind  players from around the world.

Jerseys for Africa has partnered with Marina Korberg, at the VantageOne Soccer Centre, to collect gear.

“All Vernon soccer players are invited and encouraged to continue to donate their no longer needed soccer gear by placing it in the bin provided at the indoor facility,” said Shelley Zupp, with Jerseys from Africa.

Other sponsors include Vernon Mini Storage, Elephant Storage, Instant Replay Sports, the Rutland Soccer Association and the former Goplen Drillers Soccer Team.

Zupp and her family started Jerseys for Africa in 2008 and it has now expanded around the world.

To date, more than 2,600 jerseys and hundreds of soccer balls, shorts and cleats have been sent to Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Haiti, El Salvador, Peru, Bali, Thailand, Ecuador, Guatemala and five regions in Mexico.

Through donations from the Vernon Soccer Association and North Okanagan Youth Soccer Association, gear has been supplied for about five years to Zimbabwe, through the Zimbabwe Project.

In May, Peter Maguwu, from Zimbabwe, visited the Okanagan.

“Peter was here to educate and spread the word about how all of the projects developed by the Zimbabwe Project are helping impoverished Zimbabwean communities,” said Zupp.

Jerseys from Africa relies on  individuals to personally deliver the soccer kits to the benefitting countries.

“If you are planning a trip, consider bringing a soccer kit or two with you,” said Zupp.

For more information, go to jerseysforafrica.blogspot.ca.