Help the West Rand Association for People with Disabilities survive
The West Rand Association for People with Disabilities (WRAPD) is at risk of shutting its doors.
The Department of Social Development (DSD) announced this year that it would not increase the budget allocated to assisting non-governmental organisations.
According to the MEC for the Department of Health, Faith Mazibuko, in 2021/22 the budget for Gauteng province was R144b. However, it has seen a decrease in the 2023/2024 financial year by R21.635b from R165.812b to be shared between 15 different provincial departments. She said health and education consumed the largest share of the budget and social development got less than 3%. In June, it was also announced that the budget would be reinstated, however, that has not come to fruition.
As a result of this decision, some organisations, including frail care centres, centres for people with disabilities, and those centres primarily used for the homeless and victims of GBV, are struggling to keep the boat afloat as there are not enough funds to go around. This will, in turn, heavily affect their ability to provide services to the most vulnerable people who need them.
The West Rand Association for People with Disabilities (WRAPD), one of the oldest and most well-known, situated in Oatlands, will be affected.
According to WRAPD manager Sidney Mabaso, they do receive funds, however, the amount has significantly decreased as compared to previous years.
“We are struggling due to not having enough funds being allocated. To keep the centre operating costs R162 000 a month which includes water, electricity and catering. The centre also relies on donations and sponsors to keep doors open. There are 20 staff members whose jobs are on the line leaving those vulnerable more at risk,” he emphasised.
The WRAPD was established in 1947 and has been around for 77 years assisting many people and making strides in improving lives in the disabled community. WRAPD is a centre that caters to 36 people mainly with mental and physical disabilities. To help those in need, the association also provides programmes and workshops to develop skills and keep their members productive.
The association has since appealed to the community for assistance to keep its doors open. Those who are interested can contact Sidney on 072 728 9254.
