Pledges have opened to help spread joy to underprivileged children with the Santa Shoebox Project.
Every year, the organisation collects and distributes personalised shoe boxes containing specific items chosen with the impoverished child in mind, addressing hygiene and education as well as providing end-of-year treats.
To date, 1 226 576 shoe boxes have reached children-in-need.
The Santa Shoebox Project’s CEO, Deb Zelezniak said while this was an achievement, there are still many South Africans who face economic challenges – none more so than those living in impoverished communities.
“The support of kind-hearted donors countrywide ensures that even a small act of generosity can make a big difference to a child’s life.”
To pledge, register on the Santa Shoebox Project website and follow the instructions.
Once you’ve chosen your beneficiary child or children, you can start decorating and packing your boxes.
Each personalised box reaches the very child for whom it was pledged and must contain a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, a wash cloth, school supplies, a toy, sweets and an item of clothing – all new, unused and age-appropriate.
Those short on time have the option of the Virtual Santa Shoebox. For a donation of R450, your box will be filled with all eight required items, along with extras like school socks and books. Gift-givers who can’t afford a full shoe box can still contribute by making a monetary donation.
Visit santashoebox.org.za for more information or to pledge.
