The Letdown: Episode 6: Saving tiny lives. The big impact of donor milk

Loading player...
"Exclusive breastfeeding" rates in South Africa have dropped to just 22% — well below global targets — and a growing concern as child malnutrition rises.

But in neonatal wards across Gauteng, donor milk banks are helping bridge the gap — collecting and distributing breast milk to feed the tiniest and most vulnerable newborns.

Exclusive breastfeeding means giving a baby only breast milk for the first six months, which provides the best nutrition and protects them from illness.

As we wrap up World Breastfeeding Awareness Week, HOT 1027’s Natasha Thorp, looks at the critical role that milk banks play in protecting tiny lives:
8 Aug 2025 English South Africa Entertainment News · Documentary

Other recent episodes

Hot Cares Weekly Wrap: R38.3 Million Raised — And the Giving Has Already Begun

Vital medical equipment is reaching vulnerable patients, a young I.T student's dream is getting a boost, and hundreds of people are receiving essential hygiene products — all thanks to the kindness of HOT1027 listeners. Just a week after our record-breaking Teddython raised R38.3 million, we're already putting that extraordinary generosity…
13 Nov 2 min

Diabetes: "The small things can make a big difference"

Millions of South Africans are living with diabetes — but the warning signs can be so subtle that people don't realise something is wrong, until serious complications develop. November 14 is World Diabetes Day and health experts are urging us to pay closer attention to our bodies — and make…
13 Nov 2 min

Diabetes: "I missed the warning signs and ended up in ICU"

A South African woman who nearly died after failing to recognise the warning signs of diabetes is now on a mission to help others avoid the same ordeal. 14 November is World Diabetes Day and Bridget McNulty is urging South Africans to know the symptoms that can go undetected for…
13 Nov 2 min

HOT1027 listeners raise a staggering R38.3m for those in need

From children emptying their piggy banks to businesses digging deep, HOT1027 listeners have shown just how powerful generosity can be! Our annual Teddython wrapped up with a whopping R38.3m pledged for Hot Cares — almost twice our original target. HOT1027's Tara Penny has more…
7 Nov 2 min

Voting for Joburg Ep25: Daring to hope

After years of dry taps, broken roads and growing frustration over failing services, Johannesburg residents have made their voices heard at the ballot box — and many are daring to believe that better days lie ahead. And while the votes are being counted, there's already a sense of optimism among…
4 Nov 2 min