Sassa brings services closer to Block X community
The elderly, people living with disabilities and families benefited from the programme as services were brought right to their doorstep.
The Gauteng Region branch of the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) brought much-needed services directly to the people of Soshanguve, hosting an Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP) at the Block X Community Hall.
The initiative aimed to make social services more accessible, particularly for the elderly, people living with disabilities, and families who often face difficulties travelling to Sassa offices.
The programme provided a wide range of support, including new social grant applications, reviews, and general enquiries.
For many in attendance, the outreach was more than a service; it was a relief.
Residents lined up early, with some arriving as the doors opened to ensure they received assistance.
Among them was 50-year-old Gogo Mabel Ngubeni, who said she was grateful she didn’t have to travel long distances.
“It’s not easy for us old people to go all the way to town and spend the whole day in queues. Today, I only walked a few minutes from my home, and I got the help I needed,” she said
According to Sassa Gauteng’s acting communication manager Sesame Kgabi, the outreach programme was to ensure that beneficiaries have easy access to essential services, information, and support.
“By engaging directly with the communities, we can better understand their needs, address challenges, and provide targeted assistance immediately onsite where possible,” said Kgabi.
“This outreach and the rest that are currently happening are an ongoing programme aligned with Sassa’s commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations and promoting social security.”
She said that by taking services to the people, Sassa can make a more significant impact and enhance the overall well-being of our beneficiaries.
The Block X outreach also served as a platform to educate residents on the importance of regularly reviewing their grants to avoid unnecessary cancellations or delays.
Information desks were set up to help residents understand the application process and requirements for child support, disability, and old-age grants.
Community members engaging with Sassa officials during the outreach programme in Soshanguve. Photo supplied
For Nomsa Makhubele, a single mother of two, the event was a lifeline.
“I work part-time jobs and don’t always have the money for transport. I applied for a child support grant for my youngest, and the officials explained everything clearly. This programme makes a real difference,” she explained.
“This programme shows the government can deliver directly where people live. But it shouldn’t be once-off; it must become a regular service so that residents continue to benefit.”
With the success of the Block X outreach, residents now hope the programme will expand to other areas of Soshanguve and beyond, ensuring that all vulnerable groups receive the support they deserve.
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