By Claire Henderson
This amazing initiative, commonly known as
‘Shoebox’, is an independent, accredited non-profit organisation run every year
throughout South Africa.
Founded in 2006, this year the Shoebox of
Love drive will have supplied Shoeboxes to 22500 babies, children and old age
pensioners over the last eight years.
Between the 17th of August and
the 30th October each year, the public can register to ‘adopt’ one
or more vulnerable and orphaned children. During the registration process you
have the opportunity to choose the area you would like to supply your box or
boxes to, which will be your drop off point.
Once you have registered and chosen a child
to ‘adopt’ you will be provided with that child’s name, age, gender, grade at
school and other important information, which will help you make up a
customised gift box for them.
In 2013, Shoebox extended their programme
to cover old-age pensioners at selected old age homes in Gauteng and the
Western Cape. These gifts are not as personalised as the children’s. If you
choose to ‘adopt’ a granny or a grandpa you will be sent guidelines on how to
make up a care package of up to 12 gifts items to include. This year, the
pensioner beneficiary’s are in the Western Cape only.
Once you have completed your Shoebox, it
should be wrapped, the lid and box separately, with bright and cheerful
wrapping paper and dropped off at your chosen drop off point. The shoeboxes
will then be distributed throughout November and December.
This initiative makes a huge difference to
those who need it the most, especially at such a festive time of year. With a
R300 limit, to ensure everyone receives equal gift packages, it doesn't cost a
lot to help someone in need and to supply him or her with a gift box of goodies
and a smile at Christmas!
To register for your Shoebox of Love, visit
their website here.
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Claire has a BA Hons Degree in Photography and Journalism, is passionate about writing, food, equal rights and all things African.
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Tags:
Advocacy