New Healthy Louth Football Programme Launches in Drogheda

As part of Louth County Council’s Healthy Louth campaign, a new ten-week football programme kicked off on Tuesday, 29th July at the home of Boyne Rovers FC in Drogheda.

The initiative is being delivered in collaboration with the Irish Homeless Street League, an organisation that uses the power of sport to transform the lives of people who have found themselves affected by social exclusion.

Participants will be drawn from local services, including the Red Door Project and Drogheda Homeless Aid, with sessions led by Aoife Burns, Football and Social Responsibility Officer at Drogheda United FC.

To complement the football programme, Healthy Louth is partnering with the HSE to deliver a six-week ‘Healthy Food Made Easy’ course. This will provide participants with practical nutritional advice and knowledge to support healthier lifestyles.

Speaking at the launch, Cllr Declan Power, Deputy Mayor of the Borough District of Drogheda, said: “This programme is a powerful and positive initiative brought to Drogheda through the Healthy Louth campaign. This ten-week programme is about more than football. It’s about well-being, community, and creating real opportunities for connection and purpose.

“I’m especially pleased that this highlights a six-week ‘Healthy Food Made Easy’ course, delivered with the HSE, which adds vital educational dimensions around nutrition and healthy living.

“Having worked in the sports industry for nearly two decades, often in disadvantaged communities, I’ve seen the life-changing impact of combining sport, nutrition, and mentorship. This initiative is a brilliant example of how local partnerships can make a lasting difference.

“On behalf of Cllr Michelle Hall, Mayor of the Borough District of Drogheda, I would like to thank the Irish Homeless Street League, Healthy Louth, and the HSE for their commitment. Drogheda is proud to host this programme, and I wish all participants every success in the weeks ahead.”

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, also welcomed the initiative, saying: “Sport has a unique ability to bring people together, break down barriers, and create a sense of belonging, and this initiative reflects Louth County Council’s ongoing commitment to health, inclusion, and community empowerment. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all of the partners involved, and I wish all of the participants the very best of luck throughout the course.”

Jim Kelly, board member with the Irish Homeless Street League, said: “It was fantastic to launch the Irish Homeless Street League in Drogheda! This powerful initiative offers hope, connection, and a path forward for those in need and is proof that football can change lives. I’d like to say a huge word of thanks to all involved in making this possible.”

For more information on the Irish Homeless Street League, visit https://irishstreetleague.com/