The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides social support grants to residents in need. To further increase their assistance, SASSA is now encouraging caregivers to apply for funding. Although SASSA currently distributes over 18 million awards each month, it does not include the more than 5 million people who qualify for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant in June 2024.

• SASSA is urging non-parental caregivers to apply for the Extended Child Support Grant. This applies to situations where one or both parents have passed away, or where it is uncertain where the other parent is. The Extended Child Support Grant was created to prevent children without parents from having to enter the foster care system due to financial constraints.
• To be eligible for the Extended Child Support Grant, the caregiver must provide the death certificates of both parents or the primary parent's death certificate and an affidavit stating that the other parent is not involved in the child's care, and their whereabouts are unknown.
• By providing more support to non-parental caregivers, SASSA hopes to help vulnerable children access the necessary care and support they need to thrive. Caregivers who believe they may be eligible for the Extended Child Support Grant should contact SASSA or visit their local SASSA office for further information and assistance with the application process.