Minister of Finance Announces Extension of SRD Grant and Increase in Child Support and Foster Care Grants
In response to the economic impact of Covid-19, the South African government introduced the Social Relief of Distress (SRD R350) Grant in 2020. This grant provided much-needed financial support to individuals who were unemployed and struggling financially. The grant was set to last for three months, but in February 2023, the Minister of Finance announced an extension of the grant until 31 March 2024.
Minister of Finance: R66 billion is allocated to Social Development over the medium term, with R36 billion
— National Treasury (@TreasuryRSA) February 22, 2023
to fund the extension of the COVID-19 social relief of distress grant until 31 March 2024. #BudgetSpeech2023
In addition to the extension of the SRD grant, the Minister of Finance also announced an increase in the child support grant. Rising from R480 to R510 on 1 October 2023, while the foster care grant increases from R1070 to R1130 over the same period.
Minister of Finance: The child support grant rises from R480 to R510 on 1 October 2023, while the foster care grant increases from R1070 to R1130 over the same period. #BudgetSpeech2023
— National Treasury (@TreasuryRSA) February 22, 2023
If you are interested in applying for the SRD grant or want to learn more about social security in South Africa, you can visit the SASSA website or read the article linked below. It is important to stay informed about changes and updates to government programs so that you can access the support you need.