Accra, Dec 18, GNA - Israel-based midfielder Derek Boateng on Tuesday donated food items to the Osu Children's Home as part of his contribution towards the upkeep of the under-privileged in the society. The items valued at about GH=A21000 included bags of rice and sugar, loaves of bread, milk as well as washing soap and two bales of used clothing in addition to GH=A2500 cash

Boateng who stars for defending Israeli champions, Beitar Jerusalem, at the presentation of the items to the school on Tuesday, said the donation was to fulfill an earlier pledge he made to the school authorities.

The former juvenile star assured the school of many more of such donations in the future to help the pupils realize their ambitions in life and to ensure their proper growth and development. Madam Agnes Abolimpoh, Case Worker of the school commended Boateng for his kind gesture, which she said confirms his renewed support for the less privileged in the society.

"Boateng is now part of us and we can assure you that the products will be put to good use."

The former Liberty Professionals midfielder and a member of the Black Stars squad that participated at the FIFA World Cup in Germany in 2006 later held football lessons with the pupils at the school's park. This is the second time in two years that Derek Boateng has donated food items to the school.

Meanwhile, the Israeli-based midfielder was not included in the provisional 40-man Black Stars squad named by French coach, Claude Le Roy for the 26th MTN African Cup of Nations, Ghana 2008.