Fourways Crossing helps restore dignity for Witkoppen Primary learners
A donation of school shoes and sanitary pads to Witkoppen Primary School is helping ease everyday challenges faced by learners from vulnerable households, highlighting the importance of access to necessities in education.
For many learners, the ability to attend school with confidence depends not only on textbooks and uniforms but also on access to necessities that are often overlooked.
At Witkoppen Primary School, a recent donation of school shoes and sanitary pads has helped address a pressing need among learners from vulnerable households.
Beverly Sefuralo, the marketing manager of Fourways Crossing lifestyle centre, said that the initiative followed engagement between Fourways Crossing and the school, where challenges faced by learners were identified.
“Witkoppen Primary serves a community where many families struggle to meet basic needs, and the lack of essentials such as proper footwear and sanitary products can directly affect attendance, confidence, and class participation.”
Sefuralo added that the school’s management team played a key role in identifying learners most in need, drawing on their daily interaction with learners and understanding of their circumstances. This ensured that the support reached those who would benefit most from the intervention.
“Access to necessities is fundamental to a child’s ability to learn and attend school consistently. School shoes and sanitary pads are often overlooked, yet they play a critical role in supporting learners’ dignity, comfort, and emotional well-being.”
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A lack of proper school shoes can discourage attendance, particularly during colder or rainy months, while limited access to sanitary pads remains a significant barrier for many young girls.
Addressing these needs can help reduce absenteeism and allow learners to focus on their education without fear of embarrassment or exclusion.
“We hope this initiative helps learners feel supported and valued. Having access to these essentials can improve confidence and ease some of the pressures that prevent children from fully participating in school life.”
While the donation was a specific intervention, it forms part of broader efforts aimed at supporting local schools and strengthening community partnerships.
Sefuralo indicated that continued collaboration with schools and community organisations remains a priority, with the focus on creating sustainable support rather than one-off assistance.
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