Burundi, one of the poorest countries in Africa, is recovering from decades of civil war. During the tragic conflict, 17% of the population became refugees or internally displaced persons (IDP). Now, over 700,000 of these refugees are returning home to a country that is ill equipped to meet their extreme health, social and economic needs.
A particular challenge exists for the people of Burundi in the absence of footwear. Because families do not have extra income for things like shoes, most go about their daily routine barefoot. Cracked and bare feet expose everyone - from children to the elderly - to critical health concerns such as ticks, parasites and infection from open sores. But with a generous donation of CROCS footwear, FH Canada was able to respond to this unique need in Burundi by shipping 25,000 pairs of shoes!
Because parasitic infections and intestinal worms can lead to malnutrition, anaemia and slow cognitive development, the Ministry of Health in Burundi is planning a national de-worming campaign for this summer. FH Canada's shipment of shoes will greatly assist them in the long term success of this campaign.
Andre (middle in the photo) is 13 years old and in grade four. He had never worn shoes before and often felt jealous when he would see others wearing shoes, or frustrated when he would accidentally step in animal waste. He was scared of catching diseases, but now, having received a pair of CROCS, he is thrilled that those challenges no longer exist!
A particular challenge exists for the people of Burundi in the absence of footwear. Because families do not have extra income for things like shoes, most go about their daily routine barefoot. Cracked and bare feet expose everyone - from children to the elderly - to critical health concerns such as ticks, parasites and infection from open sores. But with a generous donation of CROCS footwear, FH Canada was able to respond to this unique need in Burundi by shipping 25,000 pairs of shoes!
Because parasitic infections and intestinal worms can lead to malnutrition, anaemia and slow cognitive development, the Ministry of Health in Burundi is planning a national de-worming campaign for this summer. FH Canada's shipment of shoes will greatly assist them in the long term success of this campaign.
Andre (middle in the photo) is 13 years old and in grade four. He had never worn shoes before and often felt jealous when he would see others wearing shoes, or frustrated when he would accidentally step in animal waste. He was scared of catching diseases, but now, having received a pair of CROCS, he is thrilled that those challenges no longer exist!
