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.
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.”
Picture a young child, eyes gleaming with excitement, clutching a book they can now call their own. This Christmas, through the Jakes Gerwel Foundation’s Blue Crane Book Project, you can help make that simple, profound dream a reality for thousands of children.
In the heart of the Eastern Cape’s Blue Crane District, the Jakes Gerwel Foundation’s goal is to deliver not just a gift but the joy of reading to 3,000 young learners. For as little as R50, you can sponsor a gift that includes a captivating storybook, sweets, and a small toy – a complete Christmas package for a child who may have very little to call their own.
“We employ 40 reading assistants who provide intensive one-on-one reading sessions to children with severe reading disabilities,” shares the Jakes Gerwel Foundation.
These reading assistants work in dedicated classrooms within local schools, transformed into nurturing reading rooms filled with books, colourful shelves, cosy mats, and engaging word games. These safe spaces are not only helping children learn to read but are inspiring a love of literature that could change their lives forever.
Beyond their regular reading sessions, the foundation organises holiday programs with plays, word games, food parcels, and face painting, creating a memorable experience for every child involved. “Through these activities, we aim to foster a sense of community and demonstrate that reading and books can be fun,” the foundation explains.
You can be part of this wonderful mission to spread Christmas cheer and hope to young learners in Pearston, KwaNojoli, Somerset East, and Cookhouse. By supporting the Blue Crane Book Project’s BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign where they have raised over R1900 with the aid of 5 incredible donors, you’re joining a movement that brings not only gifts but the potential for a brighter future.
The Grace Factory, situated in Gauteng, continues its compassionate mission of supporting vulnerable mothers and their newborn babies. Since 2012, The Grace Factory has acted as a pillar of support for mothers in need, likened to a “Santa for moms,” providing dignity and relief at one of life’s most vulnerable moments.
With 400 “bundles of joy” maternity packs filled with essential goodies, distributed this past weekend, hundreds of moms across Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal can now rest a little easier. These colourful bags, emblazoned with The Grace Factory’s logo, symbolise hope and relief for mothers-to-be who are often burdened with immense stress.
Each bundle contains thoughtful items designed to ease the burden of caring for a newborn. Baby clothes, nappies, wet wipes, baby soap, maternity pads, and breast pads are among the essential gifts packed into these life-changing bags. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, 200 packs were prepared in both provinces over the weekend, bringing smiles and reassurance to 400 families. These maternity packs are distributed to hospitals, clinics, social workers, and community partners.
Donate specific items (the full list is available on their website)
Sponsor a packing day
Host a donation drive to help another 100 mothers and babies in need
The Grace Factory remains dedicated to placing value and dignity on every mother during this critical time in her life. Their vision is clear: no mother should deliver her baby without the basic care essentials, and through the collective support of communities, they continue to make that vision a reality.
The Santa Shoebox Project has launched a festive crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R45,000 for their 2024 initiative, themed “A Step Towards Brighter Tomorrows.” While the campaign’s financial target is R45,000, the project still needs to collect and deliver 10,000 shoeboxes to reach its overall goal of more than 75,000.
This year’s campaign highlights the crucial role that quality educational and psycho-social resources play in shaping the futures of South African children. With almost 65,000 shoeboxes already pledged, the project is now in its final stretch to ensure all 75,000+ boxes are filled with essentials and delivered to children in need.
Although donations can be made at any time, there are drop-off deadlines for Traditional Shoeboxes at 50+ points countrywide. For those who are unable to shop for or drop off a Traditional Shoebox, the Virtual Santa Shoebox offers a convenient alternative. A Virtual Santa Shoebox costs R450, allowing donors—even those overseas—to make a lasting difference in a child’s life from the comfort of their own home.
The Virtual Santa Shoebox initiative specifically supports impoverished children living in rural areas, far from cities and towns. These children rely on the project for basic necessities, treats, a new outfit for Christmas Day, and school supplies for the year ahead. Volunteers carefully pack each shoebox, ensuring that every item—whether hygiene products, clothing, or educational supplies—addresses the unique needs of children growing up in difficult circumstances.
Image credit: Santa Shoebox Project
Why Choose a Virtual Santa Shoebox?
The Virtual Santa Shoebox option is ideal for supporters who may not have the time or means to pack and drop off a Traditional Shoebox. It offers an easy way for donors, wherever they are, to provide meaningful support to a child in need.
A 2024 video featuring 10-year-old Aviwe, a recipient in the Western Cape, beautifully captures the joy these boxes bring. Aviwe’s excitement over receiving basics like a toothbrush and soap is a powerful reminder of how something we take for granted can mean the world to someone else.
Watch the video here:
A Legacy of Giving
Since its inception in 2006, the Santa Shoebox Project has distributed an incredible 1,226,576 shoeboxes to underprivileged children across South Africa and Namibia. From its humble beginnings with 180 shoeboxes in Cape Town, the project has grown into a nationwide initiative impacting more than 1,000 educational and care facilities each year.
“Each Santa Shoebox is so much more than ‘just’ a gift,” says Deborah Zelezniak, Chief Executive Officer of the Santa Shoebox Project. “Every item is selected with care, considering the daily challenges these children face and their potential to thrive in the future. Whether you donate your time, funds, or a shoebox, you’re making a meaningful difference in the life of a child.”
Image credit: Santa Shoebox Project
The project’s impact goes beyond the shoeboxes themselves. Through the Santa Shoebox Legacy, the initiative has built 5 Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centres, established 223 reading hubs, and trained more than 1,500 ECD practitioners. The funds raised through the Virtual Santa Shoebox campaign will also support these vital programs, ensuring long-term support for under-resourced children and their communities.
How to Get Involved
Whether you’re too busy to shop for a Traditional Shoebox or live far from a drop-off point, contributing to a Virtual Santa Shoebox is a simple yet impactful way to help. Every shoebox is a step towards addressing the vast inequalities faced by South Africa’s most vulnerable children. Join the movement and make a difference by pledging today through BackaBuddy.
To donate and support the BackaBuddy campaign, visit:
Johannesburg, Gauteng – The Angel Network has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support Alison Botha, a global symbol of survival and resilience. The campaign aims to raise R200,000 to cover her medical expenses as she faces significant health challenges following a life-threatening brain aneurysm.
Alison Botha’s story of incredible strength has inspired millions worldwide. In 1994, Alison was abducted, brutally raped, and left for dead on a beach outside Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth). Despite her life-threatening injuries, Alison’s will to survive defied all odds. She courageously chose to publicly identify herself as a rape survivor, helping to break the stigma surrounding sexual violence in South Africa. Her journey is immortalized in her bestselling memoir, I Have Life – Alison’s Journey, and the award-winning documentary Alison.
Now, Alison needs our help. Recently, she suffered a brain aneurysm, which has left her with ongoing medical challenges. To compound her difficulties, the parole release of her attackers in July 2023 has reignited emotional trauma. Without medical aid and unable to work, Alison faces a heavy emotional and financial burden.
Alison’s legal representative, Tania Koen, describes her condition as very serious. Even after discharge, she will require 24-hour care, dramatically changing her life. A trust has been established in Alison’s name to help cover her substantial medical expenses.
How You Can Help:
Donate: Every contribution to Alison’s BackaBuddy campaign will help cover Alison’s medical costs.
Share: Spread the word about this campaign. Your voice can help us reach more people who can make a difference.
South Africans were shocked to learn about Alison’s latest battle, and many have already rallied to support her. Now, through this BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign, the Angel Network invites everyone to stand with Alison during this challenging time.
Alison has spent years empowering others with her story of survival. Now, it’s time for us to give back to her. Let’s come together as a community to help Alison through her medical journey.
Mossel Bay, South Africa – The strongman world is abuzz with excitement as South African father-son duo Shane Jensen (50) and his 15-year-old stepson, Shaun Boshoff, gear up to represent their country at the prestigious Official Strongman Games. Taking place in Madison, Wisconsin, from 5–8 December 2024, this dynamic pair is ready to compete against the world’s strongest athletes—carrying not only their immense physical strength but also the hopes and pride of South Africa. But they need your help to get there!
Shane, a seasoned strongman competitor, will participate in the Masters Over 50 division, while Shaun, already making waves in the strongman community, will compete in the Junior division (16–18 years). As one of the few father-son duos in the competition, their journey symbolizes the strength, resilience, and determination that South Africans are known for.
A Journey of Strength and Resilience
Shane Jensen’s path to strongman greatness is nothing short of remarkable. His career, which began in the late 90s, faced an unimaginable challenge in 2016 when he was severely injured in a shooting incident that left him with life-altering injuries. Doctors told him he would never lift heavy weights again. But Shane defied all odds, not only returning to competition but excelling on both national and international stages. He holds multiple titles and records, including Africa’s Apollon’s Axle Bar Deadlift record at an astounding 325kg.
Inspired by his stepfather’s perseverance, Shaun began his own strongman journey two years ago. At just 15 years old, Shaun is already a force to be reckoned with. He holds the SA Junior Deadlift record (235kg) and the SA Silver Dollar Deadlift record (340kg). His determination to follow in Shane’s footsteps has propelled him to become one of South Africa’s top junior athletes, and he’s ready to take on the world at the Official Strongman Games.
Support Their Journey to the World Stage
Although Shane and Shaun’s entry fees and flights have been covered, they still need to raise R60,000 to cover accommodation, travel within the U.S., meals, and unexpected expenses due to flight delays. To make this dream a reality, they have set up a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, where supporters from around the world can rally behind them. This platform allows anyone to contribute to their journey and help them achieve their dream of competing on the global stage.
By donating to their BackaBuddy campaign, you’ll be supporting not only two incredible athletes but also a powerful story of perseverance, grit, and the unbreakable bond between a father and son. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings them one step closer to proudly representing South Africa among the world’s strongest athletes.
How You Can Help
Visit their BackaBuddy campaign https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/two-generation-strongman-athletes-on-global-stage to make a donation.
Your support will help cover the final costs and ensure Shane and Shaun can focus on their training, knowing they have the backing of their community.
Follow Their Journey
Stay updated on Shane and Shaun’s preparations as they train to take on the world’s strongest. Follow their journey on social media:
– Shane Jensen: Instagram
– Shaun Boshoff: Instagram
Pictured above: Box21For21 creator, Nicole Arrison
Pictured above: Groceries included in each box
Pictured above: Box21For21 boxes packed and ready to be distributed
