Official reply:
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
QUESTION 2078/2013
FOR WRITTEN REPLY
Date of publication on internal question paper: 16 August 2013
Internal question paper no: 27
2078. Mr M Waters (DA) to ask the Minister of Social Development:
What is the (a) food parcel distribution schedule per ward in each
municipality for the rest of the 2013-14 financial year and (b) estimated
monetary value of the parcels that will be distributed in each ward?
NW2500E
Reply:
a) It is not possible to provide a food parcel distribution schedule per
ward, as this relief is provided as a response to an identified need,
which may be triggered by a specific event, such as a local disaster.
In addition, we work very closely with the Department of Health, to
identify malnourished or food insecure children requiring support.
The information which is received through these channels directs the
intervention.
Despite the above, which prevents us providing an exhaustive list of
areas which will be targeted for food parcels, the list below
indicates some of the areas which will be targeted:
Oudtshoorn, Western Cape
Athlone, Western Cape
Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal
Tlokwe, North West
De Doorns, Western Cape
Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape
Idutywa, Eastern Cape
Ngcobo, Eastern Cape
Bizana, Eastern Cape
Nyanga, Western Cape
All food parcels distributed are distributed as part of the social
relief of distress programme, which means that the qualifying
requirements as set in the Social Assistance Act, 2004 have to be met.
For every person provided with a food parcel, an approved application
must be available.
b) Since it is not possible to provide a list per ward, the financial
information per ward can also not be provided. However, the total
budget for social relief of distress for the 2013/14 financial year is
R239 286 000. This will all be utilized in providing support to
qualifying families. Not all the assistance will be provided in the
form of food parcels, but food vouchers and in certain instances cash,
is also provided.
Given the extent of the need, additional funds for social relief of
distress for this financial year are currently being identified.
These funds will come from the projected savings under the other
social grants.