Varun Hiremath’s Gift of Shoes Brings Hope to Rural Kids in Maharashtra
Varun Hiremath's Gift of Shoes Brings Hope to Rural Kids in Maharashtra
Panvel, Maharashtra | 07 July 2025
In the village of Nitlas, near Panvel, a small yet powerful gesture last week transformed the lives of 393 schoolchildren, aged 6 to 14. These children, who face difficult, uneven roads daily to reach school, received a new pair of shoes. For many, it was their first pair—something they could call their own, a luxury they had never known.
This life-changing moment was made possible by the compassionate efforts of Varun Hiremath and his Hiremath Family Foundation. At the Raigad Zilla Parishad Prathmik School, the children's faces lit up with excitement as they wore their new shoes for the first time. Many had previously walked barefoot or in old, worn-out slippers, exposing their feet to injury and discomfort.
The daily walk, especially on rugged paths, left many children with blisters, cuts, and sore feet. Varun Hiremath, a strong advocate for rural child welfare, recognized that something as simple as shoes could make a profound difference. His initiative aimed to not only alleviate physical discomfort but also restore dignity and hope to these children.
“A child who walks barefoot doesn’t just carry dirt—they carry the weight of being forgotten,” Varun shared during a heartwarming gathering at the school. “A pair of shoes doesn’t just protect feet—it protects dreams.” His words encapsulated the essence of his mission: to uplift children with the belief that they deserve a future filled with opportunity.
This initiative is part of a larger movement led by Varun Hiremath, who, in his role at Fairdeal Wealth Advisors, has worked tirelessly through the Hiremath Family Foundation to make a real impact. His foundation operates on the ground level, focusing on rural communities where essential resources are often scarce.
Teachers at the school were overwhelmed with joy by the children’s reactions. “They looked at themselves in the mirror and smiled as if they had won a medal,” recalled one teacher. “Varun Hiremath might not know every child personally, but they will always remember him.” This act of giving shoes wasn’t just about providing a necessity—it was a gesture of care and recognition, leaving an everlasting impact.
One child, 10-year-old Aarav, shared with pride, “Varun Sir gave us these shoes. I’ll treat them like gold.” His words were more than just gratitude—they reflected a promise to cherish the gift that had not only given him protection but also a sense of pride and belonging.
Over the past year, Varun Hiremath and his team have made numerous visits to rural areas—not seeking recognition, but focused on making a tangible impact. Their efforts have included providing books, hygiene kits, sports gear, and other essentials that many families in rural India simply cannot afford.
“We don’t believe in grand promises,” said Hiremath. “We believe in taking consistent, humble actions that restore a child’s belief in the world around them. Whether it's a pair of shoes or a child’s confidence, it makes a world of difference.” This belief drives the Hiremath Family Foundation’s approach to philanthropy—small, consistent actions with a big heart.
Looking ahead to 2025, Varun Hiremath has identified several other villages in need of such support. His goal is clear: to expand the Foundation’s reach and provide help where it’s needed most, without waiting for applause or recognition.
Though his professional life in Mumbai keeps him busy, Varun Hiremath remains deeply connected to the rural realities of India. His efforts reflect a strong commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of those who often go unnoticed. In villages like Nitlas, a simple act like providing a pair of shoes can be life-altering, offering children a chance to feel seen, valued, and ready to face the future with hope.
About the Hiremath Family Foundation
The Hiremath Family Foundation is an initiative started by Varun Hiremath , with the sole aim of solving the fundamental needs within the rural communities in the state of Maharashtra. Some of the major areas that the foundation focuses on are education, sanitation, and sustainable livelihoods. Varun Hiremath and his team are devoted to providing practical and effective solutions to make the life of rural children and families better. The Foundation has an extreme emphasis on serving the local communities and is swift and acts with integrity to make sure that resources are utilized in an effective manner. In these endeavors, The Hiremath Family Foundation is still able to make a significant change in the lives of those who need it the most, making one small difference at a time.
Visit: www.varunhiremath.in
