Stirling High School contributed 200 gifts to the Santa Shoebox project last week.
The shoeboxes are distributed to underprivileged children at more than 1,000 educational and care facilities throughout SA and Namibia.
The project started in 2006 in Cape Town with just 180 shoeboxes.
Since then, the number of shoeboxes donated has reached 1,226,756.
Each box includes an item of clothing, a toothbrush, facecloth, sweets, educational supplies, bar of soap, and a toy.
The Stirling boxes are distributed to organisations in East London, such as Greensleeves, Bulugha Farm School, and Little Angels Educare Centre.
Grade 8 pupil Matthew Craigie said taking part in initiatives such as the Santa Shoebox drive taught one that not everyone was as fortunate, and many children did not receive gifts at Christmas.
“Through this experience, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for what I have and learnt how meaningful it is to give back,” he said.
“It’s helped me see the world from a different perspective and feel more grateful.”
He said it was rewarding to bring a bit of happiness to other children and he hoped they felt that people cared about them.
Grade 11 pupil Jorja Lindstrom said taking part in the drive gave her an understanding of social responsibility.
“To be a part of something bigger than just ourselves makes us aware of the plight of those less fortunate and what we take for granted.
“I hope to be able to continue with such initiatives in the future, and maybe one day spearhead such an initiative,” she said.
Grade 12 pupil Jamie Ernstzen said it was important for pupils to take part in such projects to instil a habit of giving.
“Projects such as these teach children the power and value of generosity and the significant impact it can have on those in need.
“Anyone can make a difference, regardless of their age, and being able to bless a child this Christmas has been an absolute honour.
“I find comfort in that I was able to bring a smile to a 12-year-old’s face.”
Ernstzen said he was fortunate enough to be in a position to give back to others in need.
“I’ve been a part of the Interact Club at Stirling High for the past two years, and every project we undertake has played a role in bettering the East London community one step at a time.
“Throughout my time serving on the Interact committee, our main goal was always to make a difference and bless those around us.
“The various projects we undertook this year allowed us to show people they are loved and worthy ... for me that will always be of great significance.”
Teacher Lynn Warner said the school’s pupils were encouraged by their teachers to participate in the project.
“We ran a class and grade competition, which spurred on the learners’ competitive spirit.
“The more they competed, the more boxes we were able to pledge, which was an incredible blessing.”
After running a Santa Shoebox project at a previous school, and being involved in Interact, she decided to introduce it at Stirling.
“Our Interact Club works tirelessly on numerous projects throughout the year and this was just one more way in which we could make a difference.”
She said the campaign was overseen by the Shoebox co-ordinators in East London and at a national level.
“I dealt with Lisa Mitchell, Lara Fourie, and Caylin Riley when I made arrangements to pledge boxes.
“They are the real heroes.”
DispatchLIVE
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