On September 21, 600 children at Ramunde Primary & Junior School in Siaya County, Kenya, received a pair of The Shoe That Grows, funded by Girl Scouts who chose to give their hard-earned rewards from their 2026 cookie season. Thanks to the partnership of councils and the generosity of their girls, 600 more children, many of whom had no shoes, now have their very own pair of The Shoe That Grows.

The distribution took place under the shade trees in Ramunde's schoolyard. It was the school's first distribution with Because International, in partnership with Ramunde Twaweza Community Organization, which works to create opportunities for children and youth impacted by poverty in rural communities. As boxes were opened, students, from ages 3 all the way up to 17, lined up from the playgroup benches to the junior and secondary classrooms. By early afternoon, every box was empty.

As students tried on their new shoes, they were asked two questions: how do they feel, and what do you want to do in them? Answers to the first were simple: "Happy" and "Good." Answers to the second said a little more. One student wants "to travel to good places without fear." Another plans to "take good care of them." One of the youngest in the yard put it best: "Playing while wearing."

Teachers saw the difference, too. Felix Ochieng, who has taught grades 7 through 9 at Ramunde for the past three years, shared, "The presence of the shoes brought excitement to the learners, and the majority were present for the day." Ruth Anyango, in her first year teaching at the school, said, "Very happy because the vulnerable learners have gotten a chance to smile."

Shoes do so much more than cover feet for students. They protect from injury and illness, boost confidence and support school attendance, all of which help break the cycle of poverty.

We love that Girl Scouts choose to make the world a better place for kids in Kenya with hopes and dreams much like their own. Thank you, Girl Scouts, for believing in the power of small things and giving this gift to the students of Ramunde!

Learn more about how your council can partner with Because International for the 2027 season.