On World Hand Hygiene Day (May 5), the Santa Shoebox Project (SSP) is joining the global call to action to champion the message that simple hygiene measures can and do ensure child health and dignity.

“Every year, more than 75 000 children receive their very own soap and washcloth from SSP and over the last 20 years, 1.35 million bars of soap have landed right where they needed to be – in little hands,” said Santa Shoebox Project CEO, Deb Zelezniak.

“The reality is that too many children still do not have access to proper hygiene, leaving them susceptible to entirely preventable infections. That’s why we have made it our mission to include hygiene items in every box.”

The simple act of washing hands can potential prevent 30% of diarrhoea-related illnesses and about 20% of respiratory infections such as colds and influenza, the two leading causes of mortality for children under the age of five worldwide.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), washing hands with soap – especially after bathroom use is one of the most effective and affordable ways to prevent disease, keep children in school and improve their wellbeing, dignity as well as productivity.

The Centers for Disease Control further estimates that about 1.8 million children globally, under the age of five die each year from preventable diseases attributable to inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene.

Aligning with the WHO’s 2026 campaign slogan, “Action saves lives”, SSP continues its mission to ensure that every child on its list receives the tools necessary for proper hygiene and that teachers also receive appropriate training.

“For two decades, we have required that every shoebox contains a bar of soap, wash cloth, toothpaste and brush,” she said.

“To the giver, this may seem like a small gesture, but for a child in an under-resourced rural community, it is a vital tool for health. Handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective ways to remove harmful bacteria and stop the spread of infection.”

Through the SSP Legacy arm, the project have further extended its reach the NPO have impacted the lives of 180 000 children, by establishing and upgrading Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres.

“Adding hygiene products, essential infrastructure and adequate training we are ensuring that safer care starts with clean hands,” she said.

“We believe that providing these essentials empowers children with the dignity of self-care and the protection they deserve.”

In celebration of SSP’s 20th anniversary, the organisation invites members of the community become “Santa’s Helpers” by volunteering or pledging to ensure that 75 000 more children receive these life-saving essentials this year.

For more information visit santashoebox.org.za

ALSO READ: Santa Shoebox Project and Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora donates takkies

ALSO READ: Become a Santa Shoebox volunteer