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2 February 2009

Social Development Minister, Dr Zola Skweyiya, has appealed to some sections of civil society not to create a false impression that the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) is accessible by all South Africans, regardless of their economic standing.

The Minister was reacting to reports that one non governmental organisation (NGO) in the Western Cape has been advising people to apply for the SRD even if they do not qualify.

"In the Western Cape we have a healthy relationship with the Black Sash, Access and other reputable NGOs, and we encourage people who wish to contact us through the NGOs to please use these organisations," Minister Skweyiya said.

"We appeal further to our traditional and local leaders, NGOs, faith based organisations (FBOs) who are assisting us in identifying and reaching poor households to dispense accurate information about who qualifies for the Social Relief of Distress," Minister Skweyiya said.

Minister Skweyiya added that the SRD is meant to assist the poorest of the poor and the most vulnerable households. The Social Relief of Distress is a temporary form of government assistance given to poor households facing undue hardship and can last up to three months. It maybe dispensed in the form of food parcels, vouchers and school uniform.

The Department of Social Development was granted an additional R500 million late in 2008 to intensify the fight against poverty and cushioning the poorest of the poor against harsh economic conditions.

Enquiries:
Zanele Mngadi
Cell: 082 330 1148
E-mail: zanelemn@dsd.gov.za

Issued by: Ministry of Social Development
2 February 2009
Source: SAPA