How Charity Begins With Me focuses on covering the most essential school items that are often overlooked, ensuring every child has the basics for academic success and confidence.
Gauteng, South Africa (02 December 2025) – Access to basic school resources is essential for children to thrive academically, yet it’s often the simplest items, like exercise books, that are overlooked. Charity Begins With Me decided to tackle this need head-on with a project aimed at ensuring students in informal settlements have the tools they need to start the school year strong.
What began as a plan to cover as many exercise books as possible quickly grew into one of the organisation’s largest initiatives to date. On distribution day, volunteers handed out 2,787 fully covered exercise books to children from a variety of informal settlements. For many, these are meaningful gifts that show someone cares.
“This year has been tough, but this is a small step to ensure we start 2026 on a high note,” said the team at Charity Begins With Me.

The massive effort was made possible by the ongoing support of community members, volunteers, and donors who helped make sure every book reached a child in need.
As the festive season approaches, the project also serves as a reminder of the power of giving. By combining Christmas cheer with practical support for the upcoming school year, the initiative highlights how small acts can make a big difference in the lives of young learners.
Charity Begins With Me expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone involved, emphasising that this was truly a collective achievement. With 2,787 books distributed and countless smiles in return, the project not only provided educational tools but also hope and encouragement for the children who received them.


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