In 2020, amid the profound impact of the pandemic on families, Nicole Arrison, our very own Systems & Quality Assurance Analyst here at BackaBuddy from Kensington, Cape Town, found a unique way to celebrate her December 21st birthday – by giving back. Inspired by the pressing need she saw around her, Nicole set a goal to provide 21 grocery boxes to families in need. What began as a simple idea soon grew into something much larger, thanks to overwhelming support from friends, family, and even strangers around the world.
Pictured above: Box21For21 creator, Nicole Arrison
Reflecting on the first year of Box21For21, Nicole says, “I was overwhelmed with the support from all over the world – receiving donations from America, Malaysia, and Sweden. On the day of my birthday, driving around to deliver the boxes, I held back a lot of happy tears just witnessing the joy and relief on people’s faces.”
Since then, the initiative has grown to include stationery relief, providing children with essentials for school. Each year brings challenges, yet Nicole remains undeterred. Although work commitments limited her 2022 efforts, and the funds raised in 2023 fell short of her R21,000 goal, Nicole ensured that every rand was put to good use, contributing to a charity Christmas lunch for the homeless.
Pictured above: Groceries included in each box
This year, Nicole is starting early, calling on the generosity of supporters to help her provide essential grocery boxes to struggling families. She’s once again launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, raising over R1,000 of her R25,000 goal with the help of six incredible donors. She reflects on the initiative’s broader impact stating: “Sadly, it’s not only the rising cost of living that has hit the communities around me but also the recent storms and harsh winters. Yet, I’m optimistic – South Africa is the home of ‘ubuntu,’ and my hope is that Box21For21 can grow to a point where we have a constant rotation of grocery relief boxes being distributed.”
Each grocery box includes fresh produce, rice, tinned food, hygiene products, and a little bit of festive cheer. For many families, these items make a world of difference. “One mother shared how, after the loss of her son – who was their only source of income – she didn’t know where their next meal would come from. Thanks to the grocery box, that stress was alleviated, and they could enjoy Christmas. Knowing that I could help bring them some festive joy is a feeling I hold very close to my heart.” Nicole says
Pictured above: Box21For21 boxes packed and ready to be distributed
Nicole’s vision for Box21For21 is bold but grounded in compassion. She believes that with ongoing support, this initiative can help more families in need each year. “Your contribution has an unseen ripple effect, spreading joy and compassion that’s truly incomprehensible. Together, we can make this season brighter for families facing tough times. Thank you for supporting Box21For21 and sharing in my mission to make a difference.”