After a three-hour-long live broadcast outside Newcastle Mall, East Coast Radio’s Jane Linley-Thomas and Newcastillians alike were pleased with exceeding this year’s R130 000 target, raking in more than R150 000 for the East Coast Radio’s Toy Story with Game campaign.
Mrs Linley-Thomas was completely overwhelmed by the incredible response. “Oh my word! I actually have goose bumps when I think about how people just streamed in from 12pm to 3pm! To see so many people giving new toys to care for the precious little ones in our province it just fills my heart with joy!”
The following companies made the largest contributions to this year’s campaign: South Africa Calcium Carbide – R20 000, Phuma Phambili Transport – R20 000, Round Table (Drakenberg area) – R20 000 and all the other Round Tables – R20 000.
Before the phone lines quieted down for the day, Sibya Casino, Jetpatcher South Africa/Badger plant hire, Newcastle Mall and Kay Hurilal from England contributed a further R13 750 to the campaign. The four pledges pushed the final figure up to R165 000!
The toys will light up the lives of every child in a government hospital, clinic or children’s home. Funds will be used to buy food parcels for child-headed homes around Newcastle, Dundee, Estcourt and other areas of Northern KwaZulu-Natal. Most of these little ones rely on school-sponsored meals. Food parcels will ensure they don’t go hungry during the long December school holidays. Each food parcel is valued at R350 and contains items that can feed a family of four to six for around five weeks.
Game’s Electronic Media Manager, Bernie Joshua, said, “It takes time, commitment and energy to make any day successful with an exciting and meaningful initiative like this one. Newcastle has always been special with commitment from businesses and residents.”
The sentiment was echoed by East Coast Radio’s Acting Marketing Manager, Zama Khawula. “We are always well received in Newcastle and that’s partially the reason why we keep coming back. A special thanks to Johan and his team from Champ Marketing who assisted in mobilising businesses and getting them to pledge. Well done Newcastle – we made it real!”
On behalf of KZN’s ill and underprivileged children, ECR thanks Newcastle for their generosity and kindness. “Thank you for letting the children know that KZN cares. Thank you for helping us make a difference. Thank you for helping spread joy and hope.”
In case you missed it, you can still brighten the day of a child or help ensure they have food in their tummies. Drop off a new toy at Game at Newcastle Mall or make a cash donation on www.ecr.co.za.
