Bonteheuwel resident, Sandra Jantjies, is ecstatic with the support received for her Santa Shoe Box initiative – the donations helped her to hand out 200 gifts to underprivileged children in her community.
Ms Jantjies started the project two years ago, initially hoping to fill 50 shoe boxes with toiletries, stationary, toys and treats. However, after the community’s response to help out, she managed to distribute 120 gifts.
The project grew from there, and last year, she was even able to host a party for the children, before handing over their gifts.
On Thursday December 15, she was once again able to host a party at the Bonteheuwel Multi-purpose centre and spread the festive cheer. The venue, food, drinks and gifts, were all made possible by generous donors.
An excited Ms Jantjies said: “The mayor’s office gave us the party boxes this year. It was so blessed. We received donations from the community, Dr Phaldie de Villiers and his wife, Mariam, Icon Properties, the staff of Modderdam High School, Bonteheuwel-based caterer, Gamiet Bohaardien, Vangate Superspar, and Rushine February makes the hall available for us every year, free-of-charge.
“We had fewer gifts this year, but it’s because of the economic climate. Despite this, it was a successful event, and I want to thank all those who gave so generously.”
Ms Jantjies said the children who benefit from this project, were nominated by community leaders. Every leader (in the various “blocks” in Bonteheuwel) had to identify 10 children.
