What We Do
How It Began
In the fall of 2019, Edwin Muiruri came across some children who didn’t have any shoes on their feet, and decided he had to help.
He called his brother, Kevin Wachira, who lives in the US. Together, they were able to buy each child a pair of shoes. The children were overjoyed, and this sparked an idea in Kevin.
The reality is that there are many thousands of children in Kenya without shoes to protect their feet from injury, bug bites, and unsanitary conditions. Often times, they are sent home from school for not having the proper shoes for uniform compliance.
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In early 2020, Kevin and his wife, Elizabeth Wachira, started the Viatu Foundation with the goal of providing shoes to any child who needs them.
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How It Works
It starts with our generous donors
$10 covers all manufacture and distribution costs for one pair of shoes. The cost is kept low because the shoes are manufactured locally, minimizing transportation needs and supporting local business.
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Identify the need
Once funds are raised, we determine the number of shoes that can be purchased for the next order. Our team members on the ground in Kenya, Edwin and Caroline, work with community and school leaders to identify a school with the greatest need.
Order shoes
The children's feet are traced and their information is compiled into a book that is used to order the shoes. The shoes are designed for compliance with school uniform guidelines.
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Distribute shoes
When the shoes are ready, Edwin and Caroline work with the school principal and sometimes a local pastor deliver the shoes to the children.
Letters of Appreciation
When you partner with Viatu, this is what you help do.
These are just a few of the thank-you letters we have received over the years, from real kids who have received shoes from Viatu.
"This is the day that I will not forget ever in my life, you have encouraged me to be good and helpful to others.
I have learned to be helping and kind like you."