This year, Santa’s helpers are looking to reach 80,000 children with specially packed boxes that will help children at the critical stages of their education. Thanks to the generous and loyal support of South Africans, 40% of their goal has already been pledged!
South Africa (03 September 2025) – For 19 years, the Santa Shoebox Project (SSP) has uplifted 1.3 million children in South Africa and Namibia.
This year, Santa’s helpers are aiming to reach another 80,000 children by giving them the tools they need to thrive. The best part? With 40% of the pledges already in, they’re so close to making it happen!
Good Things Guy got in touch with SSP’s CEO, Deb Zelezniak, who shared her excitement at the growing support, which directly translates as giving the gift of dignity and empowering children through education.
“The focus this year is on the definitive years in a child’s education. When our donors give children in Grade R, Grade 7 and Grade 11 the school supplies they need to start primary school, to enter high school or to remain in school for matric, they are ensuring our young citizens have access to the best education available to them.
“In addition to our ‘anchor tenant’, the Santa Shoebox itself, what the gift drive makes possible is so much more! Every Virtual Santa Shoebox pledged yields surplus funds which build Early Childhood Development centres (seven so far!), train ECD teachers and install reading corners in under-resourced ECDCs.”
Anyone, anywhere in the world, can get involved. South Africans can pledge a physical box to drop off locally, while international supporters or those short on time can opt for a virtual box, which is packed by dedicated volunteers.
The basic components of hygiene items like a toothbrush or facecloth are often cause for the most excitement for the children, many of whom may have had to share such items between family members. That is the magic and dignity a Santa Shoebox offers.
“SSP is SO loved! South Africans everywhere choose to support this beloved project and the precious children it serves.
“The need in our complicated country far outweighs the public’s ability to meet that need, so my team and I are enormously grateful for the loyal and generous support shown each year,” Deb adds.
Benoni Community Raised an Army of Sarmies For Children in Need!
How Do We Keep Matric Dances Special Without Making Them So Expensive?To make a pledge and be a part of this incredible initiative, which brings countless smiles, uncontainable joy, restores dignity, and champions childhood education, visit the SSP volunteer website page here.
Sources: Santa Shoebox Project | Deb Zelezniak
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