A campaign supported by the Hoedspruit community sees primary school learners step into school with big smiles and comfortable new shoes.
Hoedspruit, South Africa (18 February 2026) – In their second year of collaboration, Thornybush Community NPO and SPAR Hoedspruit, along with Bata Shoes, have brought comfort in the path forward for young learners.
More than 100 children attending Mugidi Primary School have just received new school shoes. The handover was made this week, and the pictures speak a thousand words.
The campaign forms part of a larger annual back-to-school collaboration between SPAR and Bata, which allows families to purchase durable, quality school shoes at a fraction of the normal price, or pay it forward for a learner in need.
“Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Hoedspruit community. We wrap up the campaign with a handover at Mugidi primary school, where over 100 learners received a new pair of school shoes. This donation will help them step into the new school year with confidence and comfort,” shares Thornybush Community NPO.
The donation drive was dedicated to the late Dominic Shubana, who was a beloved community member and familiar face at SPAR Hoedspruit, where he worked as Store Manager. Dominic is remembered for being the life and soul of the shop – everybody knew him. He was a good man, a husband, a father, and a friend.
“This school shoe donation drive is dedicated to the late Dominic Shubane,” shares Thornybush Community NPO, “whose passion, leadership and commitment has played a vital role in strengthening our partnership. His legacy of community upliftment will live on through the many young lives who have received support.”
“A heartfelt thank you to Spar Hoedspruit and everyone who supported this campaign. Your kindness is making a real difference, one school at a time.” the NPO adds.
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