Philanthropy is changing, with technology making giving back more accessible and convenient than ever before. Now, anyone with an internet connection can make a difference, anytime, anywhere – a game-changer considering a recent survey found that one-third (33%) of South Africans struggle to volunteer due to time constraints.
Recognising this challenge, the Santa Shoebox Project is inviting the public to participate in their online initiative this Mandela Day by pledging personalised Virtual Santa Shoeboxes. “These specially curated boxes bring joy to underprivileged children in remote areas of South Africa, where a lack of donors might otherwise leave them without an end-of-year gift,” explains Deb Zelezniak, the non-profit organisation’s CEO.
She adds that this allows individuals to contribute to a child in need without the full 67-minute time commitment, leaving room for additional Mandela Day activities.
Each shoebox is filled with eight essentials: a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, facecloth, school supplies, a toy, sweets, and a voucher for clothing. On 18 July 2024, South Africans will have the chance to purchase a Virtual Santa Shoebox from the Santa Shoebox Project website as well as from OneDayOnly.co.za. This will ensure that all eight required items are packed into a cheerfully printed shoebox along with extra items like a lunchbox, school socks and books. For those who cannot afford this, an option to donate any amount of money will also be available. Additionally, OneDayOnly.co.za will be matching the total number of Virtual Santa Shoeboxes bought on their site.
“Surplus funds generated from these pledges are allocated to the SSP Leacy initiatives, used to bring permanent change to the lives of Santa Shoebox beneficiary children and the impoverished communities in which they live,” highlights Zelezniak.
“Online giving options mean that pretty much everyone can participate in Mandela Day, putting the power to change a child’s life ‘in your hands’ while also experiencing the joy of giving,” she concludes.
To pledge, go to https://santashoebox.org.za or https://www.onedayonly.co.za.
