Minister Fernandez raises concerns over SASSA’s lack of Winter Preparedness | Western Cape Government

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Minister Fernandez raises concerns over SASSA’s lack of Winter Preparedness

25 May 2021

On Monday 24 May 2021, the Western Cape Minister for Social Development, Sharna Fernandez, met with SASSA and raised concerns over their tardiness in providing plans ahead of the harsh winter months that threaten the livelihoods and social security of vulnerable citizens living in the province.

“I have requested that SASSA apply their minds when outlining their plans for the coming winter. It is imperative that effective plans are put in place to support our vulnerable citizens. The impact of winter coupled with the rise of a potential third wave of COVID-19 infections are concerning. As such, all spheres of government have to play their role,” said Minister Fernandez.

SASSA remains the lead agency charged with social support to the poor in terms of Chapter 3 of the Social Assistance Act.

Although the legislative mandate of providing social relief of distress resides with SASSA, the provincial Department of Social Development (DSD) has been working tirelessly to ensure that winter readiness programmes are operational in each region across the province, however, we require the support of other government agencies to help ensure that there are appropriate responses to mitigate the impact of disaster situations on vulnerable communities. The Department’s major preparations entail the provision of additional bed spaces for homeless adults, social work services aimed at family reunification, and social relief of distress.

The DSD has staff on standby to respond to natural disasters such as flooding or fires by providing support services such as trauma counselling where needed and other forms of psycho-social support. The team further facilitates access to humanitarian and food relief by means of assessment before referring the case to SASSA.

“Our efforts as government are most effective when we work in partnership with other government agencies, NGOs and communities.  We believe that the onset of winter should not mean that the destitute must suffer from the cold, harsh weather. For this reason, we will continue to meet with SASSA to provide an update on the progress made to address their current challenges and ensure greater collaboration between SASSA and DSD,” concluded Minister Fernandez.

Media Enquiries: 

Joshua Covenant Chigome

Spokesperson for the Minister of Social Development, Minister Sharna Fernandez

Tel: 021 483 9217

Cell: 083 661 4949

Email: Joshua.chigome@westerncape.gov.za­