Social security agency Sassa CEO, Busisiwe Memela, has emphasized that people who are already receiving any form of a grant do not qualify for the Covid-19 social relief of distress grants.

The opening of the application process for the R350 relief for the unemployed for six months has been launched today.

Memela says prospective applicants will need to provide compulsory information for the processing of their applications:

Applicants can send a Whatsapp message to 082 046 8553, SMS *134*7737# or email SRD@sassa.gov.za to apply.

Meanwhile, Social Development minister Lindiwe Zulu says her department is recruiting additional 1,809 social workers nationally, to reinforce the current workforce and to provide a range of social work services.

Applicants must be:

  • Above the age of 18;
  • Unemployed;
  • Not receiving any income;
  • Not receiving any social grant;
  • Not receiving any unemployment insurance benefit and does not qualify to receive unemployment insurance benefits;
  • Not be receiving a stipend from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme; and
  • Not resident in a government funded or subsidised institution.

Prospective applicants will need to provide the following compulsory information for processing of their applications:

  • Identity Number;
  • Name and surname as captured in the ID (and initials);
  • Gender and disability;
  • Banking details – bank name and account number;
  • Contact details – cell phone number;
  • Residential address;

“I wish to appeal to caregivers not to bring children to our offices. Please leave children home but make sure that you bring all the required documents. Home Affairs will be able to provide support in terms of birth certificates,” said Memela-Khambula.