The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is responsible for administering a number of social grants that provide critical support to vulnerable individuals and families in South Africa. These grants are designed to help alleviate poverty and provide financial assistance to those who need it most.

• In August, SASSA continued to provide a range of social grants to eligible beneficiaries. These grants included the Old Age Grant, the Disability Grant, the Foster Child Grant, the Child Support Grant, and the Care Dependency Grant, among others. These grants provide regular payments to eligible beneficiaries, which can help to cover the costs of living expenses and basic necessities.
• One of the most significant grants administered by SASSA is the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, which was introduced in response to the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The SRD grant provides temporary financial support to individuals who have been affected by the pandemic and the resulting economic downturn.
• In August, eligible beneficiaries of the SRD grant continued to receive payments of R350 per month. However, it is important to note that the SRD grant was only intended to be a temporary measure to provide relief during the pandemic, and it is not a long-term solution to poverty and inequality in South Africa.
• SASSA has also implemented a number of measures to make it easier for eligible individuals to access social grants. For example, SASSA has introduced a WhatsApp application system for the SRD grant, which allows individuals to apply for the grant using their mobile phones. This has helped to make the application process more accessible and convenient for those who may not have easy access to SASSA offices or the internet.
• In addition to providing financial support through social grants, SASSA also provides a range of other services to vulnerable individuals and families. These services include social work and counseling services, as well as assistance with accessing healthcare and other basic services.
• Overall, SASSA plays a critical role in providing social grants and other support services to vulnerable individuals and families in South Africa. The agency is committed to helping alleviate poverty and promoting social development, and its work is essential in ensuring that all South Africans have access to basic necessities and opportunities for a better life.