HOT 102.7FM Raises R38.4 Million in 12 Hours for HOT Cares

HOT 102.7FM has raised an incredible R38,398,474 for HOT Cares Teddython 2026, surpassing last year's R31.5 million. The 2026 HOT Cares Teddython is a powerful example of what can happen when a brand, its people and its community unite behind something bigger than themselves.

Held at Papachinos Broadacres on 6 November, this year's Teddython was a formidable reminder that generosity has no minimum amount and that every contribution, big or small, has the potential to change a life.

From the child who gave up their pocket money to the individuals and businesses who walked through the doors to drop cash into the donation box or tap their cards, to individuals who have committed to monthly cash donations, every act of kindness counted. From listeners who pledged ongoing monthly contributions to those who donated essential goods and services, the response was extraordinary.

Donations came in many forms, from pet food, veterinary services and supplies for wildlife sanctuaries, to groceries, bread and essential household items for vulnerable families. Schools and students benefited from stationery, textbooks, teaching aids, laptops, computers and IT equipment, while medical patients received vital medical equipment, healthcare supplies and professional medical services.

Contributions also included building materials, maintenance and repair work, professional expertise and services that help restore dignity, create safer environments and give those in need a chance at a better future.

Every cent counts. Every contribution matters. And every act of generosity helps make a meaningful difference in someone's life.

Lloyd Madurai, Managing Director of HOT 102.7FM, says the achievement goes far beyond the fundraising total.

“R38.4 million is an extraordinary amount of money, but behind that figure are thousands of acts of generosity. At HOT 102.7FM, we see ourselves as a conduit for the generosity of our listeners, providing a platform through which their kindness, together with that of our business partners and the wider community, can be translated into meaningful action.

“The Teddython offers a unique and rare opportunity for thousands of HOT 102.7FM listeners to become part of something extraordinary – something that will create a ripple effect across our country for years to come.

“Think about the impact of uplifting one school. You're not just helping today's learners; you're potentially changing the lives of thousands of children and generations to come. Supporting wildlife conservation helps protect our natural heritage for future generations. Providing food and care for vulnerable animals gives them a chance at a better life, while supporting medical patients can offer hope, dignity and a lifeline to families facing their most difficult moments.

“That's the real power of HOT Cares. The money raised is important, but the long-term impact of what we can achieve together is immeasurable.”

Generosity that creates lasting change

Funds raised through the Teddython will support HOT Cares' four pillars: humanitarian support, animal welfare, medical assistance and education.

The impact will be felt across a wide range of initiatives. These include upskilling educators and equipping schools with much-needed teaching aids, learner tools and IT equipment; helping students complete their degrees and certifications; and providing breathing room for patients and their families during medical crises.

Support will also extend to vulnerable animals through food, care and assistance to sanctuaries and places of safety, while contributing towards the protection of precious wildlife across the country.

Other initiatives include upskilling promising entrepreneurs, renovating orphanages to create safe and nurturing environments for children, and establishing and sustaining vital food gardens that help communities become more self-sufficient.

Each initiative addresses an immediate need while creating opportunities for a more sustainable future.

With thanks to the donors

While every contribution is valued, HOT 102.7FM extends special gratitude to the corporate partners whose substantial cash, goods and services contributions played a significant role in this year's achievement:

• The Alpha Group – R1 million
• The All American Muscle Group – R2.625 million
• YVR Consulting – R2 million
• Ecomed – R2 million
• Wow Chat World – R1.2 million
• Business in Practice Varsity – R2 million
• Reddam House Waterfall – R1.4 million
• Insist Risk Managers – R1 million

These contributions represent an extraordinary investment in the wellbeing of people, animals and communities across the country.

Madurai adds: “People and businesses are placing their trust in us when they contribute, and we take that responsibility very seriously. Every transaction is audited, and a dedicated HOT Cares committee, comprising experts in various fields, evaluates each request for assistance to ensure that donations are allocated and used for their intended purpose.

“The work doesn't stop when the Teddython ends. HOT Cares operates throughout the year, and our listeners and donors will continue to hear about the difference their generosity is making through beneficiary interviews on air, our weekly on-air wrap-ups and updates across our social media platforms.”

The real work starts now.

The 2026 Teddython has once again shown that when people come together, remarkable things happen. R38,398,474 will go towards creating opportunities, restoring dignity, protecting lives and changing futures. HOT 102.7FM and HOT Cares thank everyone who supported this year’s Teddython. Every contributor is part of this story, with each act of generosity helping make another year of life-changing work possible.