The City’s Indigent Support Drive gains momentum as it extends to Bellville South and other neighborhoods, offering a glimmer of hope for those in need. Recently launched, this project’s main goal is to grant financial assistance to households that have a monthly income of R7,500 or less. In the upcoming weeks, a group of specialists will travel to various communities throughout the metro, providing support and guidance in completing applications for assistance.
This praiseworthy effort aims to ease the burden of residents facing difficulties by offering debt cancellations, free access to basic services, and a 100% discount on property taxes. Impressively, the City delivers the highest allocation of free water in South Africa at 15 kiloliters, the highest allocation of free sanitation at 10.5 kiloliters, up to 60 free electricity units, and is among the top municipalities offering social relief tied to property value.
In a forward-thinking decision, the eligibility criteria for pensioners and social grant beneficiaries has been broadened, allowing more citizens to take advantage of the Lifeline tariff and rates rebates. The new qualifying limit has risen from R17,500 to a monthly income of R22,000. Moreover, the City has augmented its social support package, allotting a total of R4.3 billion for rates and service relief during the 2023/24 period.
Expanding Assistance: The Campaign’s Impact and Encouragement
As it stands, the City’s Indigent Support campaign aids over 200,000 residents by providing vital financial relief. Councillor Siseko Mbandezi, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, implores more citizens to take advantage of this opportunity. He prompts community members to spread the word among their neighbors, families, and friends about the available indigent support and to approach the City for assistance. Dates and locations for October and November will be announced shortly.
Successful indigent applicants are required to re-apply every 12 months from the date of approval. Pensioners, or residents aged 60 and older, will have their applications remain valid until the next municipal valuation of their property is implemented. This is anticipated to occur by 30 June 2026 or when a supplementary valuation is introduced.
Applicants must submit proof of identification, bank statements from the last three months or a sworn affidavit confirming they do not have a bank account, bond statements from the last three months or a sworn affidavit confirming they do not have a bond account, and a copy of estate documents if the applicant has inherited their home.
Employed applicants are also required to provide their most recent salary or wage pay slip, a letter from their employer stating their income, a sworn affidavit if self-employed outlining their monthly earnings, and proof of any disability grants, maintenance grants, or pensions received.
Unemployed applicants must include a sworn affidavit declaring they are unemployed and another one stating they have no other sources of income.
A Compassionate Initiative: Strengthening Communities Through Support
Amidst a world where socioeconomic inequalities continue to escalate, the City’s Indigent Support Drive stands out as an exemplary display of a compassionate and understanding effort. By offering aid to the most vulnerable, the City not only lessens their financial hardships but also fosters a sense of hope and unity within the community. With an increasing number of residents benefiting from this program, the prospect of a brighter future for these communities appears more attainable.
