Join the Santa Shoebox Project 2025 to support underprivileged children

The annual Santa Shoebox Project is back and aims to supply 80,000 children with shoeboxes. 

The project, which has been ongoing for 19 years, has helped reach more than 1.3 million underprivileged children in South Africa and Namibia with personalised shoeboxes filled with school supplies, toiletries, and clothing items (practical necessities families cannot afford). 

Deb Zelezniak, the Santa Shoebox Project's chief executive officer (CEO), said small acts of generosity can make a tangible difference. 

“The impact is deeply felt in communities across the country,” she said. 

Busie Thuli from the Sakhisizwe Community Development Centre and Creche said this project has brought immense joy to the facility’s 100 children, many of whom are disabled for come from unemployed families. 

“Since 2019, the annual shoebox distributions have provided a lifeline of essential items and treats during Christmas, filling a critical gap in our community where resources are scarce. Their support has been a beacon of hope, bringing happiness and dignity to our most vulnerable children,” Thuli said.

The Santa Shoebox Project kicked off on Monday, September 1, and already 29,000 individuals have pledged to bring a smile to a child. 

Those interested in joining the project can pledge, pack and drop off a Santa Shoebox for a child in your community or donate to a personalised virtual Santa Shoebox. 

“Together, we can uplift and empower children-in-need and ensure they start the 2026 school year ready to learn and thrive,” Zelezniak said. 

robin.francke@iol.co.za

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