More than 6 000 pairs of pre-loved shoes have been collected as part of the Your Shoes project undertaken by the St Andrew’s School Bloemfontein. The initiative, which is a combined effort with the Cheetah Rugby Union, was launched at the school on Wednesday, 24 April.
The shoes, ranging from trainers to boots and everything inbetween, were donated by children from Irish schools to the Our Shoes charity in Ireland. The idea is to provide footwear to children who do not have shoes.
The headmaster, Roland Rudd, says the project has been ongoing for three years.
“We have brought in shoes from Ireland and have reached communities throughout Cape Town and Bloemfontein. The mission of the school is to restore a sense of dignity and provide hope for children who do not have shoes.”
Rudd is urging the St Andrew’s and Bloemfontein community to use this as an opportunity to spring-clean their cupboards at home, and consider whether they are willing to donate those shoes that are either too small, or that they have not worn for a while.
“The school is looking for pre-loved shoes in a good condition, which can go to non-profit organisations (NPOs), charity organisations, orphanages, schools, and clubs.
“Donors are encouraged to place a personalised note in every pair of shoes that is donated so that the recipient receives a message of encouragement.”
Shoes need to be bound together in pairs with elastic bands. These shoes can be delivered to Saints’ front office or to the office at the Toyota Stadium. The school has partnered with the Cheetahs and the Courier Guy, who have both assisted so far.
“Please encourage friends and family to join in this drive so that we can show our support for our community. Let’s get shoes on our kids before we head into winter.”
– Lientjie Mentz
