Santa Shoebox project aims to ensure 80,000 South African children start school with dignity

Danie van der Lith|Published 10 hours ago

The Santa Shoebox Project aims to provide 80,000 underprivileged South African children with essential school supplies, clothing and toiletries for the 2026 school year, continuing its 19-year mission of restoring dignity and hope to children in need.

Image: Supplied

For thousands of South African children, starting a new school year without shoes, basic stationery, or even soap is a harsh reality. With more than half of the country’s 20.9 million children living in poverty, these missing essentials not only strip away their dignity but also hinder their ability to learn and grow.

“In this context, small acts of generosity can make a tangible difference,” says Deb Zelezniak, CEO of the Santa Shoebox Project. “In 19 years, the nation has helped us reach more than 1.3 million underprivileged children in South Africa and Namibia with personalised shoeboxes filled with school supplies, toiletries and clothing items. This year, the goal is to reach another 80,000.”

The Santa Shoebox Project has long been a source of joy and relief for communities in need. At the Sakhisizwe Community Development Centre and Creche, the initiative has provided much-needed support for its 100 children, many of whom are disabled or come from homes where unemployment is high.

“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,” says Busie Thuli, who runs the centre. “Their support has been a beacon of hope, bringing happiness and dignity to our most vulnerable children.”

From 1 September, South Africans can once again play a role in transforming young lives by pledging, packing and dropping off a Santa Shoebox for a child in their community. Alternatively, those unable to reach a drop-off point can donate a Virtual Santa Shoebox online.

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

For more information on what to pack, where to drop off, or how to donate, visit www.santashoebox.org.za.

The Santa Shoebox Project has delivered over 1.3 million boxes since its inception, with each traditional shoebox containing eight essential items, chosen for a specific child by name, age and gender. Virtual Santa Shoeboxes, available year-round for R500, include additional items such as reading books and are distributed to remote rural areas.

All operating costs are covered by corporate sponsors, ensuring every donation goes directly to the children. Surplus funds contribute to the SSP Legacy programme, which supports teacher training, reading corners and Early Childhood Development Centres in under-resourced communities, impacting more than 125,000 children so far.

With its B-BBEE Level One Contributor status and Section 18A certification, the project also provides donors with tax-deductible receipts.