Masechaba Foundation donates school shoes to Khulanolwazi Primary learners

The Masechaba Foundation of Hope hosted a school shoes drive to help vulnerable learners in Soweto attend school with greater confidence and dignity at Khulanolwazi Primary School in Braamfischerville on August 11.

According to the foundation’s co-founder Betty Lekgetho, the initiative focused on providing brand-new school shoes to learners from disadvantaged households who face financial difficulties in meeting their children’s basic school needs.

“The foundation identified learners from vulnerable family circumstances, including child-headed households and homes led by grandparents,” she said.

“Some beneficiaries had previously attended school wearing severely damaged shoes or mismatched sneakers, reflecting the economic hardships experienced by their families.”

The organisation said its goal is to restore dignity and pride among learners by ensuring that they have proper school shoes that allow them to feel confident alongside their peers.

“Many of the families supported by the initiative depend heavily on social grants or are headed by unemployed single parents and grandparents,” Lekgetho added.

“By providing school shoes, the foundation is helping to reduce the financial pressure associated with purchasing essential school items.”

Lekgetho highlighted the impact that appropriate footwear can have on a learner’s school experience. Comfortable and suitable shoes can make it easier for children to walk to school, participate in activities and concentrate in class without feeling embarrassed about the condition of their footwear.

For learners who walk long distances, proper school shoes can also provide protection from harsh weather conditions, rough surfaces and potential injuries.

Lekgetho said the success of the drive was made possible through the generosity of local donors and community members whose contributions helped fund the purchase of the shoes.