Foundation donates shoes to learners
“For many of us, a pair of shoes is a basic necessity, often taken for granted. But for these 74 learners, it was a gift of immeasurable value.”
More than 70 Chief Albert Luthuli Primary School No 2 learners beamed with smiles after receiving a new pair of school shoes from the 100% Foundation on February 23.
According to the foundation’s senior project co-ordinator, Janap Biemba, the learners, most of whom live in the N12 informal settlement, were selected by the school to be beneficiaries after the teachers noticed their challenges.
“For many of us, a pair of shoes is a basic necessity, often taken for granted. But for these 74 learners, it was a gift of immeasurable value. The joy and gratitude reflected in their eyes were a testament to the significance of this gesture,” she said.
Biemba elaborated that not only was the initiative about providing the learners with shoes but also acknowledging their challenges and making a tangible effort to ease their burdens.
“It was about showing these children that they are seen, important, and deserving of every opportunity to succeed.”
Biemba said it was an emotional and rewarding experience for her and her team and that she is pleased to know the donation made a difference in the learners’ lives.
She said when they interacted with the learners, they noticed a need that extended beyond shoes.
“The need for socks and essential personal hygiene was evident, which prompted us to plan another visit to the school to provide the additional items.
“This realisation underscored the importance of such initiatives. It’s not just about meeting a single need. It’s about understanding the broader challenges these learners face and striving to address them, and we are privileged to notice and address them according to our funding received.”
Biemba said the pupils’ smiles, appreciation and excitement when receiving the shoes was a powerful reminder of the impact of their actions, adding that it was a demonstration that small acts of kindness can make a huge difference.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Affinity Health for their generous donation, which made this initiative possible. Their contribution is a shining example of corporate social responsibility and a testament to the power of community collaboration.
“We also thank the educators who identified the learners for gifting the shoes and making it happen with no disruption to learning,” Biemba said.
She said they would continue supporting the school’s learners and positively contributing to the community.
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