Cannons Creek partnered with Samaritan’s Feet International for the official International handover of the 10 Millionth pair of shoes by Manny Ohonme, the Founder of Samaritan’s Feet International.
Samaritan’s Feet South Africa is an NPO, that forms part of an international humanitarian organisation. “Our core focus is to serve impoverished children who don’t have shoes. Our approach is one of not merely giving shoes, but of giving hope. Because what these children hunger for more than anything else is hope. When donating shoes to kids, we focus on connection.” Read more about this worthy initiative and get involved by clicking here.
Friday, 20 October 2023, was a particularly special day for the First Young Samaritan’s Team in Africa, comprised of ten Grade 5 children, as well as Mrs Alston and Mrs Marchand. Mrs Wahl also joined for the day. The Young Samaritans had been eagerly awaiting this event for months, and on the day they could barely contain their excitement.
All of us were personally welcomed and greeted by Manny himself – which was a treasured moment. The Young Samaritans knew exactly what their role(s) consisted of and got to ‘work’ – some took turns washing feet, handing each child a pair of new shoes and socks, and provided them a message of HOPE and of being worthy. Others preferred the logistics side of things by being ‘runners’ – supplying socks, shoes, and fresh water to other volunteers. Approximately 1000 children received shoes and socks on this day and we were fortunate enough to be a part of this wonderful experience.
Also present at the event were other special volunteers such as Samaritan’s Feet volunteers from the USA, the Mitchells Plain Police, our own Cape Town Deputy Mayor, Eddie Andrews, as well as various video and cameramen and radio presenters – all to capture the essence of this remarkable day. This footage will be used to formulate a documentary, which depicts the story of Manny Ohonme, his journey of hope, and where it all started. He handed his first pair of shoes over at the FROG Centre, 20 years ago and now he had the privilege of returning to the same place to hand over the 10 Millionth shoe. The recipient was a very special local 9-year-old boy who is representing him in the documentary. In addition, the boy also received other gifts and scholarships to assist him to be successful so that he can achieve his own dreams. After serving the community we were treated to a lovely cooked meal. We cherished the time together as a team and refueled our bodies after a magical day.
Writeup and photos: Mrs Marchand
Click here to read about other Outreach iniatives that the school is involved with.
