· Lokshin Pioneers donated 100 Santa gift boxes filled with snacks, stationery and toiletries to children from foster homes.

· The group says their aim is to show foster children that they are loved and valued, even if they don’t live with their parents.

Dozens of children in Gugulethu, Cape Town could not hide their joy when they received Christmas presents from the Lokshin Pioneers non-profit organisation.

The gifts were handed out as part of the group’s Santa Gift Box campaign, aimed at bringing festive cheer to children from disadvantaged backgrounds, especially those in foster care.

Sinethemba Ntaba, chairperson of Lokshin Pioneers, said the organisation was launched on 5 December 2021, and decided to celebrate its birthday by giving back.

“Last year we donated 50 boxes and this year we managed to donate 100,” said Ntaba. “We believe every child deserves to feel special at Christmas. Foster children must know they are still loved.”

The initiative was done in partnership with the Department of Social Development, which helped identify the children most in need.

The boxes included chocolates, chips, drinks, stationery, water bottles and sanitary packs for teenage girls.

“This is part of our mission, touching hearts and changing lives,” said Ntaba.

Lokshin Pioneers also runs other programmes across the Western Cape, focusing on community development and women empowerment.

“Last year we donated 200 school desks, 100 pairs of shoes and 1,000 sanitary packs to Sibabalwe Primary School in De Doorns. We also hosted an environmental expo. This year’s Santa Box is another way we are making a difference,” said Ntaba.

Resident Nathi Shologu, 45, praised the group for remembering the children.

“Some of these kids don’t have anyone and might not have received any gifts,” said Shologu. “Christmas is a time to show love. What the organisation did is huge and I respect them for that.”

She encouraged others to do the same in their own communities. “If we all buy a gift for a child in need, everyone can have a beautiful Christmas,” she said.

Pictured above: Lokshin Pioneers NPO organised a Santa Gift Box initiative for less fortunate kids.

Image source: supplied