GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The South African NPO 'Samaritan's Feet' held a special event for learners at Spandau Secondary School on Tuesday 12 February. 

Project manager Jeanne-Marie Minnie, accompanied by various community leaders, handed out almost 1 000 pairs of school shoes to the poorest of the poor. 

Learners were also taught leadership skills and were excited about all the encouragement they received.

The approach is not merely about giving shoes. Samaritan's Feet also strives to give hope, because that is what these children hunger for more than anything else.

"When donating shoes to kids, we focus on connection," says Minnie.

"Positive connection, both physical and emotional, makes an enormous impact on their lives. We spend time with them, washing and caring for their feet. 

We connect with their hearts, encouraging their hopes and dreams, and reminding them that their lives matter."

She said that, ultimately, they're about changing lives - 'those of the kids, our volunteers and our partners'.

Samaritan's Feet forms part of an international humanitarian organisation. 

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