It is a bleak midwinter for millions of children without any school shoes but a South African medical scheme is challenging corporates and individuals to give what they can, with the message ‘each one, reach one’ this Mandela Day.
According to Kasi Angels, a non-profit foundation, 7 million children in South Africa do not have proper school shoes. Josua Joubert, chief executive and principal officer of the family-oriented CompCare Medical Scheme says the number may be overwhelming but is not insurmountable.
“Simply getting to class should not be a daily hurdle, but it is for millions of learners who have to walk to school without shoes or in shoes that do not fit. In addition to the immeasurable impact that this has on their education, it can result in various health concerns, from skin conditions to foot pain, poor alignment, and back problems, among others.
“CompCare is therefore getting firmly behind this important initiative and calling on all South Africans to make whatever donation they can – ‘each one, reach one’. If each business, family and individual aims to support at least one learner with a pair of school shoes, we can unlock the power of education for those young boys and girls who are our nation’s future,” he says.
Gerald Nomlala, founder of Kasi Angels, adds that the mental impact on children who have to attend school without shoes is significant, with many staying home to avoid the social difficulties it entails.
“I know first-hand what it feels like to be without shoes and in the school environment during one’s childhood. Giving a child the gift of a proper pair of school shoes builds their confidence and gives them a sense of hope for the future, which is vital for a positive learning experience.
“The look of astonishment and joy on the faces of these learners when they are surprised with a brand new pair of school shoes – many of them for the very first time – is hard to convey and never ceases to warm the heart.
“It is with the support of organisations such as CompCare that we are able to continue changing the lives of learners, with over 64 000 pairs of school shoes donated since the inception of Kasi Angels and a goal of one million pairs, which we believe is achievable with the combined power of our donors. Every pair of shoes makes a life changing difference – every pair really does count,” he concludes.
To find out more about how you can support Kasi Angels and make a difference with school shoes and other educational projects, please visit www.kasiangels.co.za.