PERNAMBUCO – It is the worst environmental tragedy ever recorded in the area: for days it has rained almost non-stop in the state of Pernambuco, which has declared a state of emergency, closing schools and suspending local transport.

The arrival of Inter Campus is, as always, a source of enthusiasm for children and families, even if the pitches, normally crowded and noisy, are impassable due to the bad weather. Instead, they are mostly occupied by pools of water and animals. Many families have lost their homes and those who can offer help to their neighbors. Authorities have recorded over 100 victims to date.

“We lost our home and we are living in a rented space,” say José Klaiton and Jason Gabriel da Silva, two brothers who are part of the Inter Campus project. “I loved receiving the Inter shirt so much that if I could… I would want it to happen again!”

The visit to Aracoiaba, a historic Nerazzurri hub, was canceled due to interrupted road access. Communications are also patchy. Whenever possible, training sessions take place in gyms, so as not to lose the desire to be together. This was the case in João Alfredo, Passira, and Vicencia, where the municipalities themselves go to great lengths to ensure the welcome remains as warm as Brazilian tradition dictates. For the first time, they tell us, someone from Europe has arrived in these rural areas. It is a difficult moment, but for this reason even more significant, an opportunity to reiterate how the Nerazzurri social project goes beyond the field of play. The educational role of Inter Campus, supporting school pathways and learning, finds practical expression in the theoretical and field activities with children and coaches, thus becoming a virtuous example with a far-reaching impact.

Everyone is invested with an extra sense of responsibility, thanks to that shirt worn by Ronaldo nearly 25 years ago: boys and girls committed—with hands on their hearts—to being good people, and adults dedicated to valuing the presence of Inter Campus according to the healthy values of sport for everyone.

The week, which was supposed to conclude with a large community event, ends with more localized meetings of play and dialogue. The most recurring word is Gratidão—gratitude—pronounced by mayors, teachers, and students in a unanimous chorus that we echo.

The visit comes to an end in a sober atmosphere of solidarity, amidst many rain-soaked hugs and a promise: to cultivate hope through a football.