Meropa Casino and Entertainment World, in collaboration with Mahube Social Partners, is spearheading a shoe drive campaign.
The campaign aims to seek donations of new and gently used running shoes in good condition.
Sammy Mokhele, the general manager of Meropa, said the campaign aims to promote the benefits of an active lifestyle, both mentally and physically, to local community members who cannot afford running shoes.
“Previously, Meropa Casino & Entertainment World donated over 300 shoes to five township schools in Polokwane. The donations were made in January 2023 when all the schools opened for the new year. As Meropa Casino and Entertainment World, we ensure the campaign has the greatest support from us,” he stated.
Mahube Social Partners is a non-profit company dedicated to addressing social challenges, collected over 100 pairs of shoes and donated them to underprivileged runners.
Mahube Social Partners Co-Founder, Dr. Moshibudi Molepo, stated that they are appealing for support to make a positive impact through this cause.
“Eight beneficiary organizations have been identified for the upcoming round of the running shoes campaign, namely Moletji Athletics Club, Fitness for All Athletics Team, Pula-Madibogo Primary School, Makgefola Primary School, Megoring Primary School, Diopong Primary School, Hwiti High School, and Ramashobohle High School. Some of the runners who will receive shoes possess the talent and potential to build a career in running – they also qualify and participate in the Comrades Marathon,” she said.
David Magagane, the Department of Education Mankweng Circuit Manager, expressed appreciation for Meropa Casino and Mahube Social partnership for the running shoes campaign and said that the circuit will adopt the campaign to be part of the school’s extramural activities program.
“The schools coordinate athletics every year, and when you visit the grounds, you will find many learners participating in various sporting codes, often running barefoot. However, despite this, some learners manage to excel and reach the national level even without proper footwear. As Mankweng Circuit Manager, we will adopt this campaign as part of our program to raise awareness,” said Magagane.
Moletji Athletic Club, represented by Coach Jeremia Mokaba, emphasized the urgent need for proper sports facilities and support from all sectors to assist poor and vulnerable athletes from rural communities.
“The current state of sports, especially in rural areas, is devastating. This is why Moletji Athletic Club seeks the partnership of Meropa Casino and Mahube Social Partners, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the local municipality athletics federation, and other partners to join hands in developing sports from the grassroots level. There is abundant talent in the poor rural communities where resources are scarce, said Mokaba.
Those who wish to donate can drop off at Meropa’s Reward Centre, Polokwane Athletics Club, or Mercurius Motors Polokwane.