Torrential rains over the past week have caused severe flooding across both provinces, leading to overflowing rivers, collapsed bridges and widespread destruction of roads and critical infrastructure. Large areas have been left without water and electricity, with many families losing their homes and belongings. Both provinces have since been declared Disaster Areas by the South African government, with damage to public and private infrastructure estimated in the billions, says the radio station.
Many have lost homes and belongings, and according to disaster relief organisation Gift of the Givers, the urgent needs include bottled water, non-perishable food, baby formula and nappies, and toiletries. Jacaranda FM is calling on listeners and corporates to step up and help provide emergency relief to those in need of basic supplies, adds the radio station.
"Good Morning Angels has always been about bringing hope and practical support to those in need, and this flood crisis hits close to home for so many South Africans," says Vuyani Dombo, Managing Director at Jacaranda FM. "We're partnering with Gift of the Givers and Lions Club to ensure donations reach the front lines quickly. Every contribution, big or small, can make a real difference in rebuilding lives."
How You Can Help
Jacaranda FM is coordinating the collection of essential items at designated drop-off points, managed by the Lions Clubs of Mbombela and Letaba / Tzaneen. All donated goods will be collected by Gift of the Givers and distributed directly to flood-affected communities, adds the radio station.
All funds donated between Wednesday, 21 January and Sunday, 25 January will go directly toward Gift of the Givers' disaster relief operations in Limpopo and Mpumalanga, says the radio station.
What to Donate
- non-perishable food
- bottled water
- baby nappies
- baby milk formula, and
- toiletries (soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, sanitary pads, wipes).
Drop-Off Locations
Gauteng
- Jacaranda FM Headquarters: 89 14th Road, Erand Gardens, Midrand (Wednesday, 21 January to Friday, 25 January from 06:00 to 18:00).
Mpumalanga
- Sonpark Shopping Centre, 1 Faurie Street, Sonheuwel (Wednesday, 21 January to Friday, 25 January between 09:00 and 17:00).
Limpopo
- Mall of the North, R81, Bendor, Polokwane to Centre Management Office, (Wednesday, 21 January to Friday 23 January from 08:00 to 17:00, Saturday, 24 January from 09:00 to 14:00, Sunday, 25 January from 10:00 to 14:00).
- Tzaneen Show Grounds, R71, Aqua Park, Tzaneen (Wednesday, 21 January to Thursday 22 January from 08:00 to 17:00, Friday, 23 January from 08:00 to 14:00, Saturday, 24 January from 10:00 to 17:00).
Gift of the Givers will collect donations from the drop-off sites on Monday, 26 January, says the radio station.
Through Good Morning Angels, Jacaranda FM continues its commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of South Africans during times of crisis. By coming together as a community, listeners can help restore dignity, hope, and essential support to those impacted by this disaster, adds the radio station.
For more information, visit www.jacarandafm.com. You can also follow Jacaranda FM on Facebook, X, Instagram, or on TikTok.
*Image courtesy of contributor