OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The Journey of Hope that saw more than 1 000 children in Oudtshoorn’s farm communities receive new shoes and socks last month, will continue on Monday 12 October.
Together with local organisations and community partners, Samaritan’s Feet SA (SFSA) will return to Oudtshoorn to continue the initiative, with the aim of reaching a further 1 000 children.
During the first outreach during the week of 14 September, the team visited seven farm schools and Bergsig Primary School, reaching children who often walk long distances barefoot or in unsafe or unsuitable footwear.
According to Hermien Louw, CEO of SFSA, the initiative goes beyond simply providing shoes. As part of the outreach, volunteers wash each child’s feet, spend time connecting with them, providing protection, comfort and a renewed sense of confidence.
The programme was driven by the Oudtshoorn community. Local organisations worked together to identify children in need and co-ordinate the outreach. SFSA supported the initiative by bringing its international team and guests from The Links in North and South Carolina to Oudtshoorn.
“This is what happens when a community decides to come together,” said Louw.
The organisers are now calling on residents, businesses, churches and organisations to support the next phase of the initiative. A contribution of R250 per child can help provide safer and healthier feet, greater confidence and dignity, as well as improved opportunities for children to participate fully in school and daily life.
The organisers say providing children with suitable footwear is an important foundation for their health, education and future opportunities.
Residents and organisations interested in supporting or collaborating with the Journey of Hope can contact Louw at [email protected].
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
