Last spring, Rytas Vilnius launched the new campaign Together Against All, which aims to unite the capital’s club organization, players, and fans not only inside the arena but also beyond it. The initiative seeks to consistently bring various social issues to the public’s attention and contribute to solving them.
On October 10, marking Homelessness Day and the beginning of the cold season, the club decided to dedicate the entire month to this group of people. This Wednesday, members of the capital’s organization will visit the Betanija canteen to contribute to the activities of the Vilnius Archdiocese Caritas.
“Often, buried in our daily worries, we forget that among us there are many people whose lives have not been easy,” said the club’s director Jaroslav Latušinskij. “That’s why it is our duty as a society to care for such people. It’s no coincidence that society is judged by how it treats its weakest members. With this thought and motivation, we will go to volunteer at the Caritas social center Betanija, which helps 300–500 people in need every day.”
The action will involve not only Rytas players, coaches, and administrative staff but also Kibirkštis players, youth team members, and the Rytas Dance Team dancers.
“There was no need to persuade anyone – as soon as we announced our plans, plenty of people wanted to join. Only by staying united can we overcome difficulties and create meaningful change in our society. Through our example, we aim to inspire our fans, whom we will invite to take part in various social initiatives throughout October,” added J. Latušinskij.
During all three home games in October at Jeep Arena, spectators will find a Caritas charity box where items will be collected to help homeless people survive the cold season – jackets, shoes, trousers, sweaters, t-shirts, etc. The organization asks people to donate only clothing suitable for wearing.
Fans visiting the arena will also find the Caritas prize wheel, which anyone donating money to the organization can spin. In mid-October, Rytas will hold an auction where the highest bidder will be able to purchase team jerseys signed by all players, with all proceeds donated to the Lithuanian Caritas organization.
Caritas is an international Catholic organization that helps those in need, regardless of race, religion, or nationality.
With over 4,500 volunteers and 285 employees, Caritas in Lithuania responds to the needs of the sick, lonely, and elderly, provides food, medicine, clothing, and other essentials to those in need, and supports people experiencing homelessness, violence, or addiction. Caritas youth work to reduce the technological gap among the elderly, while migrants, refugees, former prisoners, and unemployed individuals receive assistance in reintegrating into society.
Those wishing to donate to the organization can do so now by calling 1454 (donation 5 EUR) or through their website.
The Together Against All campaign will not be limited to October and will continue throughout the season, aiming to raise awareness of as many social issues as possible.