Launched in February 2015, on 23 August 2016, Heidelberg Mall doubled the love and donated 421 pairs of shoes to Indawo Yosizo, as well as shoes, blankets and sanitary items to nine girls at Shalom Orphanage.
The mall’s initiative started as a meaningful drive to collect shoes, of any style, colour or size to assist those most in need, after the owners of Heidelberg Mall asked residents how the mall’s social initiatives could best help them.
The Shoe Collection Drive made its first stop at Indawo Yosizo, a non-profit organisation offering a range of social work services to the community of Heidelberg. Since opening in 2007, the centre continues to provide HIV/AIDS counselling, various empowerment programmes, and a feeding scheme to help support 700 people and 250 children from Ratanda and other vulnerable communities in Heidelberg.
After being informed that a helping hand was needed, Heidelberg Mall also donated 12 pairs of shoes, 20 small blankets and 30 packets of sanitary pads at Shalom Orphanage. For over 15 years, the home has opened its doors to 600 children and currently offers a safe haven for 72 children who rely on the centre for food, shelter and clothing.
Chris Bendall, Heidelberg Mall GM says he is grateful for the opportunity to help support local organisations who do wonderful work in making a positive difference in people’s lives. “The ongoing support from shoppers and the Heidelberg community continues to inspire us to lend our help where it’s needed most.”
