Question NW2581 to the Minister of Social Development
04 October 2023 - NW2581
Hlongo, Ms AS to ask the Minister of Social Development
What are the relevant details of the (a) intergovernmental strategies to assist and support homeless persons who are without proper documents such as identity documents or proof of residence to benefit from grants and (b) policy framework to support homeless persons?
Reply:
a) In line with Section 27 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the Social Assistance Act makes provision for all eligible persons to receive the necessary support in the form of social grants. SASSA has a national footprint, and any homeless person can approach the Agency personally to apply for social assistance. Non-Profit Organisations supporting homeless people could also direct them to SASSA offices for assistance.
The Department is in the process of establishing a Joint Technical Working Team, comprising of the Department of Home Affairs and SASSA to deal with identity documents challenges for social grant beneficiaries, including people living and working on the streets. A 2-year strategy is being developed that will enable the three institutions to work jointly to expedite birth registration and or ID applications of all beneficiaries on the alternative identity system.
b) The process of developing the policy on homeless has commenced guided by the diagnostic study on homelessness. The Draft Policy is envisaged to be in place by the end of the current financial year (2023/24). The consultation process will commence during 2024/2025.