Food parcel distribution to be coordinated, minister says

Grant beneficiaries must ensure that their grant money is spent on the well-being of them and their families, as these funds are sourced from those who pay taxes and help to ensure that the country’ social security net is protected.

Lindiwe Zulu, the Minister of Social Development, made this statement as she gave an update on her department’s risk-adjusted response to the Covid-19 lockdown level four regulations earlier today.

“I see beneficiaries on social media bragging with their cards and their payouts and I want to urge you, that this money is meant to assist you in trying times.”

She said since the start of the lockdown, the department has been providing food and nutrition services to combat the growing challenge of malnutrition and hunger in vulnerable communities. Zulu said they have noted the challenges with queues for food which is distributed by NGO’s.

“These challenges are experienced when the private sector and NPO’s distribute food parcels in an uncoordinated manner and local municipalities, provinces and law enforcement agencies have often not been informed timeously of these distributions.” She said uncoordinated efforts to distribute food often creates duplication and the opportunity for corruption.

The minister called on those who have received food parcels to be considerate.

“Do not take more than your share. You must understand that our resources are limited, so when you take two food parcels instead of one, you are taking away from another vulnerable family.”

She announced that directives will be issued to better coordinate the distribution of food parcels, which will encourage NPO’s to coordinate with municipalities, provinces and law enforcement agencies.

Regarding the R350 Social Relief of Distress grant, the minister said 80 000 applications have been received as from 30 April, of which 57 763 applicants were eligible. She also outlined the process involved in applying for the grant.

She thanked citizens for their patience during the lockdown. “We continue to reiterate the importance of each and every one of us to wash our hands regularly, stay at home, go out only when it is absolutely necessary and essential, and observe the appropriate guidance on physical distancing.”

ALSO READ: SASSA R350 relief grant: here’s how to apply

Notice: Coronavirus reporting at Caxton Local Media aims to combat fake news

Dear reader,
As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19.
Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).