The National Lotteries Commission, through Research-Based Funding to the South African Red Cross Society, distributes humanitarian relief parcels to families in Limpopo and Mpumalanga affected by the floods
The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) is changing lives in Limpopo and Mpumalanga by distributing humanitarian relief parcels to households hit by the severe floods of mid-January 2026. On 17 and 18 January, the government declared a national state of disaster after lives were lost, more than 3,900 households were affected and over 400 schools were closed.
When the floodwater receded, the hardship remained, as many families had lost their homes and food.
Through NLC Research-Based Funding to the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS), the NLC is returning lottery proceeds through the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF) to the people who need them most. The funding has made it possible to deliver humanitarian relief materials to flood-affected families. This month, October 2026, SARCS and the NLC are joining local municipalities, government departments and provincial disaster management teams to hand over the parcels, showing how partnership turns funding into relief.
Communities reached in the two provinces include:
- Mpumalanga: Ermelo (Msukaligwa Local Municipality) and Kwa-Ngema Village (Mkhondo Local Municipality), both in Gert Sibande District; and Hluvukani (Bushbuckridge Local Municipality).
- Limpopo (Vhembe District):
- Musina Local Municipality: Tshikhundini, Madimbo, Bale, Gumbu, Tshenzhelani, Masisi, Tshivaloni, Dovho, Tshilamusi, Duluthulu, Bennde-Mutale, Mutele, Malale, Muswodi Dipeni and Gumela Village
- Chavani Village (Makhado Local Municipality)
- Ha-Begwa Village (Thulamela Local Municipality)
- Limpopo (Sekhukhune District): Mashabela Village (Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality).
More than 1,000 beneficiaries have received parcels so far, and distribution continues in other areas. For each family, a parcel means a meal, warmth through a cold night, and the assurance that they have not been forgotten.
The NLC’s funding shows what lottery proceeds can achieve when they reach communities in their hour of need. Long after the floodwaters have gone, it is restoring dignity and rebuilding hope.
