May 4 2006
FIFA President Blatter visits SOS Children's Village São Domingos in Cape Verde
04/05/2006 - SOS Children's Village São Domingos received a very special visit on 2 May. Joseph S. Blatter, president of FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association), accompanied by the presidents of the Cape Verdean, African and Asian Football Federations and other FIFA representatives, brought joy and happiness in the village.
Welcomed to the village by the director of SOS Children's Villages Cape Verde and both village directors for SOS Children's Villages São Domingos and Assomada, the visitors headed towards the village multi-purpose hall, where "SOS Stars", the village choir, greeted them with a song.
The director of SOS Children's Villages Cape Verde, on behalf of SOS Children's Villages and the big "SOS family", thanked Mr Blatter and the delegation for all the support they have given to SOS Children's Villages and the SOS children. He emphasised in his speech the strong partnership linking the Cape Verdean Football Federation and SOS Children's Villages Cape Verde, which have led to several exchanges between football players and SOS children.
As the entire village applauded, a little girl presented a bouquet to Mr Blatter. In his remarks, Mr Blatter mentioned how delighted he was about the existing partnership between FIFA and SOS Children's Villages and gave special thanks for the beautiful song performed by the children. Mr Blatter told the children that he had only brought along five footballs with him, but would make sure at least 15 to 25 others would be sent to them the following week. In the meantime, not to make anyone jealous, the five footballs were given away in a drawing. Mr Blatter also gave a generous donation to support the village.
Speeches were followed by a photo opportunity, where everyone, including the SOS mothers, rushed to get their picture taken kissing or embracing the very special visitor.
The visit ended with a brief tour of the village, where Mr Blatter and the other visitors admired a family house interior and the colourful kindergarten.