Koronadal City, 2024 – In response to the challenges posed by the rainy season, the Rotary Club of Marbel has launched an impactful new initiative called “Boots for Brighter Steps.” In partnership with the Rotary Club of Cheonan-West and the Rotary Club of Alabang-Lampara, the project has provided over 500 elementary pupils across Koronadal City with durable rain boots. Designed to support school attendance and student safety, the initiative addresses a key obstacle for children: navigating muddy, slippery roads, particularly in rural areas.
Project Overview
Launched in July 2024, the “Boots for Brighter Steps” project began with its first distribution at Koronadal Central Elementary School-1, where 122 pupils received rain boots. Subsequent distributions expanded the reach to four additional schools, ensuring that children who frequently walk to school on challenging terrain could benefit from the protective footwear.
Key Distribution Events:
- Koronadal Central Elementary School-1: On Rizal Street, Barangay Zone IV, 122 pupils received rain boots at the project’s launch.
- Carpenter Hill Elementary School: On July 29, 2024, 144 pupils in Barangay Carpenter Hill were provided with practical protection against inclement weather.
- Guadalupe Elementary School: On August 12, 2024, 160 pupils in Barangay Guadalupe received boots, easing their daily journey to school.
- Crossing Diaz Elementary School: On August 19, 2024, 53 pupils in Brgy. San Isidro were given boots, addressing an urgent need for proper footwear in an area prone to muddy conditions.
- Marbel 4 Elementary School: Concluding the project’s initial phase, 51 pupils in Brgy. New Pangasinan received boots on August 27, 2024, bringing the total to 530 pairs distributed.
Project Impact and Community Response
For many rural communities, inclement weather presents hazardous conditions for students walking to school, affecting both attendance and safety. By providing rain boots, “Boots for Brighter Steps” offers a simple yet effective solution, enabling pupils to attend school regularly and safely. Teachers and school administrators have noted a positive impact on attendance and morale, while parents welcomed the project as a significant enhancement to their children’s daily lives.
President’s Statement
Janine C. Pring, President of the Rotary Club of Marbel, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “Every child deserves the opportunity to learn without the worry of muddy roads and wet feet. We are grateful for the support of our partner Rotary Clubs in making this possible. ‘Boots for Brighter Steps’ reflects our commitment to improving the lives of children in our community, and we look forward to seeing them walk confidently into their classrooms.”
Looking Ahead
Following the success of the project’s launch, the Rotary Club of Marbel aims to expand “Boots for Brighter Steps” to reach additional pupils in neighboring areas. Plans are underway to explore partnerships and sponsorship opportunities that will sustain and extend the program, helping ensure that children in remote communities can focus on their education, rain or shine.
For more photos and videos capturing the heartwarming moments from each distribution, please visit our Facebook page. The Rotary Club of Marbel remains dedicated to building impactful, sustainable solutions that contribute to brighter futures for our youth.
