Join Ballito’s Santa Shoebox project

For eight years the Santa Shoebox project has been spreading festive cheer to vulnerable children.

Last year 118 274 children throughout South Africa and Namibia received boxes through this inspiring goodwill organisation.

The Ballito satellite is now in its second year, targeting children between the ages of two and 18.

“This year we have ensured the teenagers get more representation as they are often neglected in favour of the littlies,” said Santa Shoebox Ballito co-ordinators Natalie Smith and Kirsten Abery.

So, how can you get involved?

Register online at www.santashoebox.co.za to become a volunteer to assist at dropoff or to pledge a box or even both.

Donors can then select a child by name, age and gender as well as their preferred drop off point. This year there are four new KZN drop off points – Howick, Empangeni, Bluff and Amanzimtoti- to add to the existing eight.

Donors are encouraged to involve their own children in the process of putting together the Santa Shoebox gift.

Gift boxes have to be filled according to the guildelines provided on the Santa Shoebox website, and must include eight practical necessities – toothpaste and toothbrush, facecloth and soap as well as sweets, educational supplies, a toy and a clothing outfit.

Drop off for Ballito will be on October 24 and 25 at Christ Church North Coast in Umhlali.

For more information visit www.santashoebox.co.za or contact Kirsten Abery on 083 326 3968, or Natalie Smith on 082 372 0500.