MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The Friends of Porus Association (FOP) is stepping up its support for children in Manchester, providing 320 pairs of school shoes through its 2026 Back-to-School Shoe Drive.

Eight schools will benefit from the initiative: Porus Primary, Broadleaf Primary, Ramble Primary, Castle Primary, Harmons Primary, Saint Jago Primary, Victoria Town Primary and Infant, and Porus Infant School.

FOP initially set a target of 300 pairs of shoes but surpassed that goal, securing 320 pairs after raising approximately $1 million with support from donors.

The initiative is being undertaken in collaboration with Give Back Jamaica through its “Kickers” Shoe Drive programme, founded by Dr Evelyn Richardson.

Her own childhood experience of attending school without shoes at the beginning of the academic year inspired the programme.

FOP Vice-President Vassell O’Gilvie said giving back is  important to him because of his connection to the community and Porus Primary School.

“Giving back to my community is particularly important to me because I know the struggles many families face,” he said.

O’Gilvie recalled a touching moment during a previous distribution when a student immediately put on his new shoes, placed his old pair in the box and repeatedly thanked the organisation.

The shoes are sourced locally through Sammy’s Shoe Store. Give Back Jamaica President Hopeton Brown also plays an integral role in the initiative, helping to identify recipients, obtain shoe sizes and coordinate presentations with participating schools.

Students are selected in consultation with school administrators, with assistance targeted towards children most in need.

Distribution is scheduled for September 14-16 at the participating schools.

O’Gilvie expressed gratitude to everyone supporting the initiative, while singling out Sephron Mair, President of The Signature Society, for his consistent support of the annual shoe drive.

“We want to extend special thanks to Mr Sephron Mair, President of The Signature Society, whose yearly contribution has helped to make this initiative possible,” O’Gilvie said.

He also thanked the wider group of supporters: “To our donors, thank you. You are the engine that drives this programme forward.”