As the 2019 Santa Shoebox Project draws to a close, Farrarmere’s Margie Kostelac, who heads up sponsorship and is a regional manager for the initiative, fills us in on this year’s highs.
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“Every year is an against-all-odds story of magic and joy for thousands of underprivileged children throughout South Africa and Namibia.
“This year, while no different, feels extra special, for several reasons.”
Margie shared a few anecdotes of what touched their hearts even deeper than usual this year.
Driver’s licence voucher: In 14 campaigns to date, we had never before seen a beneficiary child receive a voucher for driving lessons and their licence. This was a first, which happened in Secunda.
Thank you box: A beneficiary child created a box of treats as a thank you for the Santa Shoebox volunteer at a celebration outside Johannesburg. The box contained chips, a sucker, one Chappie, three marbles and a fresh apricot. It may well be the most precious box we’ve ever received! This was also another first for the Santa Shoebox Project.
Santa Shoebox at home: A father shared photos and a video with us of his little girl unpacking her Shoebox goodies at home, after the celebration at her educare. Yet another first! We had never previously seen what happens when the boxes go home.
“It is thanks to the support of so many that this magic happens!” said Margie.
“Our theme this year was Let’s Make Magic and boy did we!”
Next year the Santa Shoebox Project will be reaching its millionth child.
For more information about the project, how to get involved or how to volunteer, contact Margie (national sponsorship and regional manager for Gauteng, Free State, North West, Port Elizabeth and East London) on 082 417 3649.
