The spirit of giving is in full swing at the 2026 Hot Cares Teddython, where an overwhelming wave of morning support has prompted organisers to lift their target to R25m.

Held as a day dedicated to supporting people, animals and communities in need, the Teddython brings businesses, residents and generous donors together to help Hot Cares continue its work throughout the year.

Shona Madurai, who works as the manager in the office of the managing director at Hot 107.9FM, said the response had exceeded expectations, with donations and pledges coming in from early morning.

“The momentum has been unbelievable. We are often on the phones, and this morning, at 06:00, the phones were ringing off the hook. That didn’t happen last year. I just think people in this area are unbelievably generous,” she said.

Last year’s Teddython raised more than R30m, with the funds distributed across Hot Cares’ four pillars: humanitarian support, animal welfare, medical assistance and education.

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Madurai said the donations had enabled the organisation to reach numerous individuals, children, organisations and animals, including children who needed hearing aids and those receiving cancer treatment.

Young man learns to speak

One particular story has remained close to her heart. She recalled a young man in his 20s who had received a hearing aid through Hot Cares. Having been unable to speak because he could not hear, he recently returned to express his gratitude and share his progress in learning to speak.

This year’s event also introduced several interactive activities to encourage more people to get involved. These included a dunk tank, where participants could nominate someone, including their bosses, to take a splash for a R10 000 donation, as well as a strongman competition challenging visitors to beat a record set earlier in the day by Cebos ‘Impi’ Cesaw.

Face painting was also available, with six hours of the service donated to entertain younger visitors and give children an opportunity to participate using their pocket money.

Interactive fun boosts community drive

Madurai said the activities were intended to give visitors something enjoyable in return for their support while creating an entertaining atmosphere for families.

With the fundraising target now sitting at R25m, residents and businesses are encouraged to join the ongoing event and contribute through financial pledges, goods or services.

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“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You help to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people and animals around us. You won’t know how much your donation means, and we couldn’t do this without you,” Madurai said.

Residents and businesses who would still like to contribute to the Teddython can make donations by calling the pledge line on 010 880 8351. Further updates on the fundraising total will follow as pledges continue coming in.

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