Religious leaders contribute footwear for students.  

Tsakani- Jerusalem Church in Zion Intethelelo leaders Bishop William and Lady Bishop Nobuhle Masango donated school shoes at Sizuzile Primary School on February 4.

The initiative is strongly driven by the couples’ childhood. They have been assisting children with school shoes in and around Kwatsaduza.
Last year they donated over 150 pairs of school shoes to learners.
“We give out school shoes to our congregants yearly before reaching out to other people who are in need. We donated more than 25 pairs in church this year.
“Last year we would stand on the road, observe the children’s shoes and gift them with a box of brand new shoes.
“One of the educators from this school saw us last year on the road, doing the Lord’s work, and asked us to donate school shoes to this specific school as she explained to us that many of the children in this school are struggling,” explained Nobuhle.

The couple joined forces and decided to assist the school by donating 50 pairs of school shoes.
They aim to continue to run this initiative with other schools and communities, saying they aim to contribute positively to every child’s learning journey by making a difference.
“Each pair donated to these children gives them hope, confidence and a sense of belonging. It makes them feel included and motivates them to go to school.
“The aim of this contribution is also to provide relief to the parents as many are unemployed and unable to afford shoes,” she added.
She mentioned that they are in need of sponsorship from local businesses, individuals and community members as these contributions will make a significant difference.
She added that through sponsorship they may also be able to buy school uniforms and other educational needs for the children.

“We want to combat kids from dropping out of school due to not having school shoes, proper school uniforms, stationery and low self-esteem.
“Receiving support or assistance would help us reach more kids, change more lives and positively contribute to greater schooling years. This would also help us donate to three or four schools yearly,” she added.
School principal Oupa Mokoena said most learners who are attending the school are from Ext 10 which is an area that predominantly consists of unemployed parents who often struggle to make ends meet.
“It is through donations like these that help the school and its learners to survive. The school identified the neediest children who are in need of these school shoes.
“The shoes will come in very handy on a cold winter day; we appreciate this sort of contribution.
“The school has many other needs such as sporting gear and equipment and we are excelling in sports. We recently accumulated 42 medals which is record-breaking,” he added.
“Over and above everything, I am really grateful for the donations. I look forward to having a long term relationship with the Masango family and the church,” he said.