Shopping, smiles, and second chances—Hot Cares delivers joy

Bethany House Trust in Krugersdorp has been a place of refuge and care for vulnerable children since 1998. But in the early hours of May 4th, that sanctuary was violated when burglars broke into the Trust’s newly renovated Social Welfare and Therapeutic Centre. After disabling the electricity and security systems, the intruders caused significant damage and made off with laptops, computer monitors, and—perhaps most heartbreaking of all—the children’s hard-earned pocket money.

Some of the children had been saving up to buy Mother’s Day gifts. Others had birthday surprises tucked away. What was stolen wasn’t just money—it was joy, trust, and the sense of safety they had worked so hard to rebuild.

When Hot Cares heard about what had happened, we knew we had to do more than replace the stolen items. We wanted to help rewrite this painful moment into one of joy and empowerment. Thanks to the generosity of our Hot 102.7 listeners, we’re thrilled to be giving the children of Bethany House a shopping outing they’ll never forget. With vouchers totalling up to R30,000, each child will have the opportunity to choose something just for themselves—restoring their sense of choice, agency, and celebration.

And because fun is an essential part of healing, Hot Cares will also be donating an additional R10,000 towards new balls and board games to fill the home with play, laughter, and learning once again.

To every child at Bethany House: you are not alone. We see your strength, we honour your resilience, and we are here to walk this journey with you.