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While the festive season might seem far away, now is the time to get into the giving spirit. From 1 September 2023, the country‘s favourite gift-giving initiative, Santa Shoebox Project, will be opening pledges, enabling kind-hearted citizens to ‘Share the Love‘ with 80 000 children in need throughout South Africa and Namibia.
Every year, the nonprofit organisation collects and distributes personalised shoeboxes comprised of essential items and treats for children and has reached 1 152 587 children over the past 17 years. “Now, in our 18th year, we hope to reach many more, and we need your help to do so,” says Deb Zelezniak, the nonprofit organisation‘s CEO.
Each shoebox should contain a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, a washcloth, school supplies, a toy, sweets and an outfit of clothing – all new, unused and age-appropriate. “This year, we‘re again encouraging donors to include a duplicate item in their shoeboxes which the child can, in turn, bestow on an important person in their lives,” she adds. “After all, every child should be able to experience the joy of giving. All too often these children are recipients of hand-me-downs and second-hand items that no one else wants. The Santa Shoebox Project impacts on its beneficiaries lives in a profound way – support the Project and do the same.”
Those wanting to pledge over 20 Shoeboxes can join forces with family, friends or colleagues and jump the pledging queue with a Team Pledge. This is Section 18A tax deductible and, as a Level One Contributor to B-BBEE, Santa Shoebox earns its supporters 135% procurement recognition.
Drop off points and dates are visible on the Santa Shoebox Project website here https://santashoebox.org.za/find-my-local-dropoff/.
For more information, go to https://santashoebox.org.za.