A MEREWETHER primary school has given old boots a new purpose with kids in Kenya.
Holy Family Primary School Merewether joined forces and donated old footy and soccer boots to give disadvantaged children living in the Kibera Slum, a new opportunity.
Teacher Maeve McCallum visited the world's third biggest slum last year where she volunteered at a local primary school and donated old Merewether United Football Club jerseys.
"That was probably the most special part of my trip. Seeing the excitement, shock and enthusiasm and just pure joy on those kids' faces," she said.
"It was a really special moment, and really resonated with me because such a seemingly straightforward act of me taking the jerseys over there had such a profound impact on their lives."
On her return she shared her experiences with her students and there was an overwhelming desire to give more.
"Sharing my story allowed my students to realise gratitude and more important, it inspired them to realise they can make a difference on their own," she said.
The decision to donate boots was made and Ms McCallum said the very next day her students had washed their boots and brought them in ready to ship to Africa.
"They were so keen on helping out. It was incredible," she said.
The school held an out-of-uniform fundraising day and sausage sizzle to raise funds to ship the two large boxes containing around 30 pairs of shoes. The package was sent last year and arrived in July.
Ms McCallum said she was extremely proud of her students and to be part of a generous and compassionate community.
"A common motto I heard a lot while I was in Kenya from the locals was; 'don't give us sympathy, give us opportunity'," she said.
"So I like to believe that's what we've done with this whole process."
