Hilma Nalupe 

The Swakopmund Junior Town Council (JTC) held its annual community outreach project, Christmas in a Shoebox, at the beginning of this month. 

The initiative relies on community participation and encourages learners and residents of Swakopmund to donate essential items such as sanitary products and toys packed in shoeboxes. 

These boxes are later distributed to children who would not ordinarily receive Christmas gifts. 

This year, the council collected approximately 440 shoeboxes from various schools across the town. The donations were distributed to Happydu, Tears of Hope Orphanage and the Love & Hope Helping Hand Soup Kitchen in Swakopmund. 

Junior Mayor of the Swakopmund JTC, Enya Förtsch, said planning for the project begins early in the year, as each shoebox needs to be checked and wrapped before distribution. 

She added that the project was a meaningful experience for the council, as it allowed members to witness first-hand how much the donations mean to the children and the organisations that support them. 

“Every year, we choose different organisations so that more children get the opportunity to receive something special at some point,” Förtsch said. 

Rachel Abrahams from Love & Hope Helping Hands expressed her gratitude for the donations, saying they brought joy to the children. 

“I am truly thankful to everyone who contributed to the shoebox initiative and helped make my little ones’ Christmas memorable,” Abrahams said. 

Looking ahead, the Swakopmund JTC hopes to collect even more shoeboxes in the coming year as the project continues to grow and spread festive cheer within the community. -hnalupe@nepc.com.na