AN initiative aimed at aiding the underprivileged children in Nelson Mandela Bay saw the local YMCA this week launch a school shoe campaign.
With nearly a month into the first school term, hundreds of learners are still barefoot, said YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay CEO, Lerato Lebopo.
More than 2 000 pairs of school shoes will be distributed to 21 schools with the greatest need in and around the Bay. The school shoe purchase was made possible by the Metro Atlanta branch of the YMCA in America.
These schools were identified through a consultation and engagement process in local communities.
“One of the most heartbreaking things I’ve come across is that children are often sent back home from school for not wearing the correct school attire, which is unfortunate as some of these children come from severely underprivileged backgrounds with economically strained households.
“As the winter looms, we want to give the kids pride and confidence knowing that they can walk to school in comfort,” said Lebopo.
The distribution of school shoes is supported by Tavcor Motor Group, which generously sponsored a VW Crafter 35 for the duration of the campaign.
Being a family-owned business in the Bay area was one of the factors that encouraged the Tavcor Motor Group to participate in this philanthropic initiative with the YMCA, said Martin Taverner, Tavcor Motor Group general manager for new VW sales.
‘’Our values are deeply entrenched in ensuring the upliftment of the community in which we operate,’’ added Taverner.
In the spirit of excitement and camaraderie and making a difference, Taverner challenges other businesses to get involved in the campaign.
The Tavcor Group is a family-managed dealership that boasts more than 70 years in the automotive industry. It has cemented itself in locals’ hearts through years of providing quality service and its consistence in being true to its company’s value of ‘’Giving Back’’ by participating in various community-based programmes.
“Thanks to Tavcor, we will be able to reach these schools conveniently over the next few weeks,” said Lebopo.
Issued: YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay
