Bringing shoes and smiles to Apokor Special School
Dhamira Moja's Dignity in Every Step program provided The Shoe to children at Apokor Special School for Intellectual Disabilities
Joy in every step: How a simple pair of shoes transforms a community
The Global Uplift Project partners with organizations around the world to provide essential products and relief to schools and children in need. One of the project’s most recent initiatives brought The Shoe That Grows to partner organization Ciford Kenya, giving children durable, adjustable shoes that grow with them.
In these distributions, 100 pairs were delivered to students at Nambere Primary School on November 12, 2025, and another 100 pairs reached students at Gambela Primary School in Isiolo, Kenya, on February 3, 2026.
Before receiving their new shoes, many children attended school barefoot or wore worn-out footwear. Teachers shared that this was especially common among families facing drought and food insecurity, where proper shoes aren’t always a priority. Students often struggled to walk long distances on rough terrain, particularly during the hot season.
The moment the children received their new shoes was unforgettable. “We witnessed joy in its purest form—children proudly wearing shoes that will grow with them, and teachers expressing relief knowing their learners are safer,” shared one volunteer. Children carefully adjusted each pair, walking with a newfound sense of pride, while teachers smiled, knowing their students were protected.
“Distributing The Shoe That Grows wasn’t just giving footwear,” another participant reflected. “It was restoring dignity, confidence, and protection to children who walk long distances to school every day.
The excitement went beyond the shoes themselves. Teachers and volunteers noticed a shift in the children’s confidence and hope. These shoes strengthened school morale and reminded families that their efforts and struggles are seen and valued. “This support has strengthened not only individual children but entire school communities,” one participant said.
The impact also extended beyond morale. Teachers have observed higher attendance, and parents expressed gratitude knowing their children could travel safely and comfortably. The adjustable design ensures the shoes last longer, giving children time to focus on learning instead of navigating harsh conditions.
Even small moments reveal profound effects: a child walking proudly to class, a teacher noticing the difference in comfort, and volunteers seeing the community respond to this simple act of care. Beyond protecting feet, these shoes protect dreams, education, and futures, showing how a single gift can ripple through a community and inspire hope and confidence far beyond distribution day.
