Throughout the show, Glen Lewis, Skhumba and Kgomotso Meso take the "icy plunge" in support of orphanages and old age homes, urging listeners to pledge and help strengthen these vital community organisations, says the station.
All funds and donations raised during the drive support selected orphanages and old age homes, such as Mother of Peace in Northriding, Thuli Home in Orange Farm, Bula-Mahlo in Tembisa and Frida Hartley Shelter for Women in Yeoville, aiming to help them continue their essential work in caring for vulnerable children and the elderly, adds the station.
Within the first few minutes, the first major pledge of the day comes from African Media Entertainment (AME), contributing R10 000. This is soon followed by Japanese manufacturer, Yamaha, who pledged R20 000 in support of the initiative, says the station.
Support continues to grow as listeners, individuals and local businesses step forward with additional contributions, adds the station.
DJ Zali of Street Kids Media pledged R20 000, Kyalami Shisanyama pledged R6 000 and AA Bakery donated R14 000 worth of bread. Glen Lewis and a close friend each pledged R5 000, while other prominent Kaya 959 presenters, staff and listeners made their contributions on the fundraiser platform, BackaBuddy, says the station.
The largest contribution of the day ciomes via a challenge from the Hollywood Group, with Buhle Mkhize their PR and Communications Manager pledging to donate R100 000 on behalf of the Group if the three Drive 959 hosts could brave the icy baths for 10 minutes, adds the station.
For a first-time activation, the response far exceeds expectations, resulting in a total of R200 000, a powerful reflection of the strong support Kaya 959 enjoys from its audience, says the station.
"This initiative reminded us of the incredible power our listeners hold when they come together for a greater purpose. The generosity we witnessed today shows just how deeply our audience cares about uplifting the communities we serve," says Maekanya Morotoba, Commercial Programming Manager at Kaya 959.
Aside from the three Drive 959 presenters, Feel Good presenter, Andy Maqondwane, Kaya 959 Acting Managing Executive, Dave Tiltmann, General Manager for Motorcycles and marine at Yahama Melvin Victor, and some staunch supporters of the show are among the participants in the "Ice Bath Plunge", adds the station.
The inaugural Pledge and Plunge aims to mark the beginning of what promises to become a meaningful annual community initiative at Kaya 959, concludes the station.
For more information, visit www.kaya959.co.za. You can also follow Kaya 959 on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.
*Image courtesy of contributor