Santa Shoebox Project: Time to pledge your support for children in need
Ready to give children a reason to smile? Gather your colleagues, friends, or family and join the movement!
Santa Shoebox Project organisers revealed almost eight million South African children live below the poverty line, resulting in many not receiving a Christmas gift.
According to a statement issued by organisers, “While it may still be cold outside, now is the time for warm hearts to come together to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. The Santa Shoebox Project, which brings festive season joy to more than 70 000 disadvantaged children each year, is giving teams the chance to get into the spirit of giving early, with the opening of Team Pledges on August 1.”
They are of the view that imagine Secret Santa but on a grand scale.
“By pledging 20 or more shoeboxes packed with treats and essential items, your team can light up the faces of children around South Africa and Namibia. Each box includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, facecloth, school supplies, toys, sweets and an outfit of clothing, all new, unused and age-appropriate, chosen for a specific child living in the donors’ community. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Team Pledges are all about fostering a sense of community.”
Alison Lurie of RE/MAX Living shared, “It brings everyone together … reminding us of the joy a little shoebox can give a child. Beyond the joy of giving, Team Pledges also offers potential tax advantages for companies. It’s a win-win – your team builds festive spirit while potentially reaping rewards such as 135% procurement recognition and a 10% deduction under Section 18A of the Income Tax Act.”
To encourage other teams to join in on the festive gift-giving fun, Lurie added, “This is such a worthy cause and although it is a small act of kindness, it can have a big impact.”
Click here to pledge your team’s participation.
