GSDM Chief Whip hosts info session for the elderly
“We have invited you grandmothers and grandfathers to this event to share with you information on some of the services that GSDM provides to the elderly and for the government offices to inform you on some of the changes that have taken place regarding your grants, and to answer any questions you might have,” Mr Nkosi said.
The Whip of Council in Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM), Mr Trevor Nkosi, recently hosted an information session at the Wesselton Community Hall with the elderly from different wards of Wesselton.
The proceedings of the day got off to a tasty start as Mr Nkosi treated his guests to breakfast before getting down to business.
In his address, Mr Nkosi explained that the day was a twofold affair.
“We have invited you, grandmothers and grandfathers, to this event to share with you information on some of the services that GSDM provide to the elderly and for the government offices to inform you on some of the changes that have taken place regarding your grants, and to answer any questions you might have,” Mr Nkosi said.
Mr Bongi from the Department of Social Development (DSD) spoke about the importance of attending centres for the elderly.
He said these centres provide much-needed care to the elderly and are good for their well being as most of them also have recreational activities which include exercising.
“Grandmothers and grandfathers please do not avoid attending these centres or becoming members as this is vital for your health.”
“At these centres, the government also ensures that professionals attend to your needs and you get to share different experiences with your peers.” explained Mr Bongi.
He also cautioned the elderly to report any ill-treatment they suffer at the hands of their grandchildren, because most of them bottle these things up and end up being victims of heart attacks.
Mr Thulani Mthembu from SASSA had a warning to the elderly against loan sharks that take a huge chunk of their social grant money.
He explained the new changes that have been implemented on how grants are paid and encouraged those that can use the new systems, to collect their grants at the different and alternative pay points.
In his closing remarks, Mr Nkosi encouraged fellow councillors to continue playing their roles in the community of looking after the elderly and make use of the relevant offices to assist them where necessary.
At the end of the festivities for the day, the chief whip handed out 100 blankets to the elderly as a token of appreciation.
Also present on the day was Ms Martha Mataleni Mthethwa-Mkhonza, who recently celebrated her 100 year birthday.
