Reverend Theo Khanyile is on a mission to restore dignity to learners in need, one shoe at a time.

As an ordained priest in the Anglican Church, Diocese of Johannesburg, and founder of a community-based ministry for men and boys called Onthepew, he is pleading with the greater community to support the initiative.

Onthepew is a safe space for young boys and men where they can openly speak about issues of vulnerability, identity, and life challenges.

As part of this initiative, they have been providing support to vulnerable individuals, including distributing food hampers and blankets, and now, they are running a shoe drive.

The shoes are given to school-going children who are identified as being in need.

“These children are identified by the different community members and concerned individuals, who contact us to request assistance. Once identified, the shoes are delivered directly to the recipients,” Theo shared with the Roodepoort Record.

He added that this work is more than just a charitable endeavour; it’s a deeply personal crusade.

“I was raised primarily by my mother, as my father was a migrant worker. Although my mother had very little, she always ensured that our feet were covered.

“She taught me that shoes give a person dignity. For this reason, I cannot pass a child without shoes without acting. Through this initiative, I seek to restore dignity to those who have little or are struggling, just as my mother once did for us,” he said.

Shoes can be dropped off at Holy Cross, Orlando West, or by calling 072 214 9974 to arrange delivery or collection.