By Elizabeth Osayande

As the festive period approaches, children and parents are filled with excitement, particularly the pupils of the Tobby Emmanuel Foundation. They are especially thrilled by the donation of free bags, shoes, and other educational materials from the Shoe A Child Foundation.

The founder of the Tobby Emmanuel Foundation, Mr Tobi Emmanuel, who offers tuition-free education to pupils and students, expressed that this gesture will significantly ease the financial burden on parents who struggle to provide basic necessities for their children in Abeokuta. He stated, “We are very excited and grateful to the Shoe A Child Foundation for these materials. They will support the children’s welfare and academics, alleviating the burden on parents who have difficulty providing these essentials.”

Emmanuel also praised the late founder of the Shoe A Child Foundation, Mrs Ola Oluwatosin Badmus, as well as the current coordinator, Ms Abisola Aremu, for continuing this valuable initiative and choosing their school for the outreach.

This outreach marked the foundation’s second major intervention this year, following a similar program held in July. Organisers noted that this consistent effort highlights their commitment to supporting children in need of basic educational supplies such as shoes, bags, books, mathematical sets, and writing materials.

During the event, outstanding pupils were recognised for their academic achievements and were presented with school bags and books.

The co-founder of the foundation, Mr Opeyemi Badmus, explained their focus on the community and the school. “Our initiative targets less privileged children in rural areas, including those in orphanages,” he said. “Our goal is not just to distribute shoes and materials, but to inspire these children to pursue their aspirations.”

The foundation’s coordinator, Ms Abisola Aremu, emphasised the broader objectives of their initiative. “We aim to provide shoes and essential educational materials to children in need. Additionally, we sometimes organise skill acquisition programs, offer scholarships when funding is available, and conduct mental health sensitisation as we advocate for children’s well-being,” she elaborated.

Mr Emmanuel expressed his gratitude again, saying, “We are very excited and grateful to the Shoe A Child Foundation for these materials. They will significantly enhance the children’s welfare and educational experience.”

One of the beneficiaries, Emmanuel Wisdom, shared his excitement with Vanguard, stating, “I am thankful to the Shoe A Child Foundation for coming to our school and giving us these gifts.”