Thursday, June 12, 2025
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Chief Executive Officer, Themba Matlou, has pledged maximum support to the families affected by the devastating floods that have wreaked havoc and claimed 57 lives in the OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape.
In a statement on Thursday, the agency said it has acted swiftly, through its Social Relief of Distress programme, to assist families whose homes were severely affected during the floods.
“To this end, SASSA is active at three established sites, where about 229 people are served with three nutritious meals a day, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to immediate food security. In addition, 229 vanity packs and five baby packs have been procured and distributed to meet essential personal and infant care needs,” SASSA said.
In anticipation of the transition phase, SASSA has developed a Disengagement Plan aimed at equipping beneficiaries with basic resources to support reintegration and restore stability. This package will include:
- Two-ply blankets.
- One mattress per individual.
- Cash vouchers to address short-term financial needs.
- School uniforms for affected learners, promoting educational continuity.
Recognising the profound impact of loss on families, SASSA will provide two vouchers in support of the grieving families with immediate needs.
Matlou said SASSA has a mandate, derived from the Social Assistance Act, to offer assistance to the affected families.
“Social Relief of Distress is temporary provision of assistance intended for persons in such a dire material need that they are unable to meet their families’ most basic needs. We also wish to offer our utmost condolences to the families of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to those who are injured.
“We are working very closely with all the relevant stakeholders in the social cluster of the province to ensure that maximum support is given to the distressed families. We extend our gratitude to all stakeholders, partners, and community members, who continue to support this vital work,” Matlou said. – SAnews.gov.za
