Nomtsikelelo Mthabela

The COVID-19 global pandemic has resulted in the loss of thousands of jobs across all industries, leaving most families vulnerable and dependant on the R350 social grant relief.

The aim of the social relief grant is to help those who are unemployed and receiving no financial assistance.

For Slindile Zweni who has been a waitress for the past 3 years has had to come to terms with the tough challenge of being an unemployed single mother of two.

“I have no idea how I would be supporting my children if it wasn’t for the social relief grant, it literally has been our saving grace through these months and with increasing food prices we don’t even make it to buy every essential on the grocery list but it’s better than nothing,” said Zweni.

With the lockdown rules and regulations most companies are not looking to hire new staff.

“I am very much worried of what life will look like once the social relief grant ends in October, how will I even get a job since we’re in lockdown and what kind of Christmas will my children have.” Added Zweni.

According to the Minister of Social Development Lindiwe Zulu, the COVID-19 pandemic, has spurred discussions on how the poor will continue once the R350 social relief grant is discontinued and the consideration of the Basic Income grant.

Picture: talkofthetown.co.za