Shakira’s Foundation ‘Pies Descalzos’ Opening 6th School In Colombia

Not only is Shakira famously known for her music and belly dancing, being the girlfriend of one of Spain's hottest soccer player, the mother of a gorgeous kid, and coach of "The Voice," she is also a very dedicated philanthropist. Although she takes on many causes, the closest one to her heart is the Pies Descalzos Foundation, a Colombian charity founded by the singer that provides schools for poor children all around Colombia. Along with Shakira, there are other international groups and individuals involved. The name of the foundation was taken from Shakira's third studio album, Pies Descalzos, released in 1995.

So far, the foundation, along with the support of the local city halls, has contributed with five schools in three of the most vulnerable areas of Colombia: Quibidó, Altos de Cazucá and Barranquilla. Pies Descalzos is currently working towards the well-being and education of over 4,686 children and teens, promoting quality public education with the help of the private sector in displaced and vulnerable communities. Continuing with her efforts, Shakira and her foundation are about to open their sixth school in Colombia, more specifically in Loma del Peyé, Cartagena.

February 19, 2014 is the date set to officially inaugurate the school and Shakira herself will go back to her country to be a part of this event. This new project will benefit 1,700 kids and will indirectly optimize the lives of 30,000 citizens of the San Bernardo, La María and San Francisco areas. The Pies Descalzos School will have an area of 84,000 square feet and will have more than enough room for kids in kindergarten to high school, specialized classrooms, cafeteria, library, community center and sports amenities.

Other collaborators of this project are the Cartagena City Hall, Howard Buffet Foundation, Hard Rock Café, Freixenet, Tour Merchandise, FFC Barcelona, RTL TV, ICBF, Fundación Mario Santo Domingo, Pacific Rubiales Energy, Ecopetrol, and Buy a Brick.