CoJ and Spar donate 10 000 pairs of school shoes

The City of Johannesburg’s Department of Sports and Recreation in conjunction with SPAR brought smiles to thousands of learners through a school shoe donation drive.

The project commenced on July 21 and concluded on August 11, where a total of 10 000 pairs of school shoes were donated to seven regions within the City of Johannesburg.

In the final stretch of the drive, the MMC for Community Development in the City of Johannesburg, Counsellor Lubabalo Magwentshu visited Nonto Primary School, Protea South Primary School and Slovoville Primary School in region D to hand out the school shoes.

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Magwentshu said the aim of the project was to make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless children by providing them with brand new pairs of school shoes.

“We hope we have touched the hearts of many leaners and families especially the ones from vulnerable backgrounds. School shoes are more than simply a necessity for school but also improve confidence of most leaners,” said MMC Magwentshu.

Magwentshu added that the success of this initiative is testament to the City’s commitment to providing equal opportunities particularly for those in greatest needs and better the lives of communities.

The Regional Operations Manager at SPAR, Tapiwa Muchaonerwa said he was delighted to witness smiles on the faces of children since inception of the campaign.

“The significance of this endeavour extends far beyond the provision of shoes. It symbolises our enduring commitment to empowering the next generation to chase their dreams and honour Mandela’s legacy,” said Muchaonerwa.

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Learners were overjoyed to receive new shoes because for many, it was their first time owning a brand-new pair of school shoes.

Acting principal at Nonto Primary School, Mogomotsiemang Ratilodi said the contribution meant a lot to the school and it was a blessing for the learners.

“We appreciate the gesture from the City of Johannesburg and SPAR. We are thankful for the donation as this gesture will bring confidence and dignity to our leaners,” said Ratilodi

Magwentshu thanked the local ward councillors, SPAR, City officials, teachers and principals for making the project a success and for always putting learners’ needs first.