Every day, millions of children in South Africa walk to school barefoot. For many, the journey is tough – sharp stones, hot tar, and long distances make getting to class a painful and exhausting struggle.
Sadly, this reality doesn’t just take a physical toll; it also affects a child’s emotional well-being. Without proper footwear, many children feel self-conscious, which lowers their confidence and discourages them from fully engaging in school activities.
The physical and emotional discomfort of going barefoot often deter children from enjoying their time in the classroom or on the playground. It limits their participation in sports, play, and other activities essential for holistic development. Over time, these challenges can lead to disengagement from school, reducing their chances of a brighter future.
SPAR Campaign With Bata Shoes
Recognising these struggles, SPAR and Bata Shoes have joined forces again this year to address the issue head-on and give children in need a ‘Start Like No Other’. By offering 500,000 pairs of Bata foundation phase school shoes for just R70 – available to customers who spend R350 or more and swipe their SPAR Rewards card – the initiative aims to provide children with the tools they need to thrive.
The campaign runs until 23 February 2025 at participating stores nationwide. The Bata school shoes, available in unisex sizes 12, 13, 1, 2 and 3, combine durability, comfort, and style.
“Proper shoes don’t just make the walk to school easier; they instill a sense of pride and belonging. They empower children to participate confidently in classroom learning, sports, and social activities. Through this campaign, we’re giving South Africa’s learners more than just shoes – we’re offering a renewed sense of dignity and opportunity”, says Mpudi Maubane, PR, Communications & Sponsorship Manager at The SPAR Group.
Mickey Lindsay, General Manager of SUPERSPAR Village Square, proudly displays one of the many pairs of Bata school shoes generously donated by customers as part of SPAR’s ‘Give Them a Start Like No Other’ campaign. These donations will bring comfort and confidence to children in need.
“We understand that January, with all its back-to-school expenses, can be a challenging time for families,” says Maubane. “That’s why we’re committed to easing the financial burden while ensuring children have access to quality school shoes as part of the Spar Campaign. We encourage shoppers to visit SPAR to stock up on back-to-school, lunchbox or any other essentials and take advantage of the Bata school shoes offer for just R70.”
Pay It Forward
“Parents who don’t need shoes for their own children can pay it forward by purchasing shoes for a child in need, with the aim of giving as many children as possible a start like no other. The SPAR Group has already donated hundreds of pairs of shoes to children in need this season, and more will be donated over the duration of the campaign”, explains Maubane.
“Our annual collaboration with Bata highlights SPAR’s commitment to offering more than just value – it’s about making a tangible difference in communities. Proper school shoes not only make walking to school more manageable. They also enhance children’s confidence. This allows them to fully participate in classroom activities and sports”.
Research conducted by Stellenbosch University emphasises the long-term impact of well-fitted shoes. Children wearing improper footwear are at risk of developing foot abnormalities and musculoskeletal problems later in life. Ensuring access to durable, well-fitting shoes supports their physical and emotional well-being.
The Promise Of Better Things
“Every pair of shoes represents more than comfort and confidence – it carries the promise of better things,” concludes Maubane. “By offering affordable Bata school shoes, we hope to empower vulnerable children in the communities that we serve to step confidently into a brighter future”.
SPAR stores, which are independently owned and operated, play a vital role in local communities. Initiatives like this SPAR Campaign reflect SPAR’s broader goal of being a meaningful partner in improving lives.
Families are encouraged to visit their local SPAR, where they can spend R350 or more, swipe their SPAR Rewards card, and purchase a pair of Bata school shoes for R70. Participating stores can be identified by the ‘Give Them a Start Like No Other’ campaign posters.
A heartwarming display of donated Bata school shoes, collected through the generosity of SUPERSPAR customers. Each box represents a child receiving the support they need to walk into the school year with dignity and pride.
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