HELP IS AT HAND

As the lockdown continues and more South Africans go hungry, food parcels are literally a lifesaver

- DUENNA MAMBANA

IT’S one of the most fundamental human rights – access to food. And for millions of South Africans who live below the poverty line, it’s been hard to afford even the most basic of basics since the announcement of the lockdown due to Covid-19.

Poor South Africans have been protesting, crying and pleading with government to provide food parcels so they can feed their hungry children, who usually have access to food only through school feeding schemes.

Tembisa resident Sponono Maredi says there would be nothing left for her and her unemployed 38-year-old son to eat if she hadn’t received a package from a local church through the People Matter Foundation.

Speaking to DRUM at her RDP house in Mqantsa section, the 59-year-old says she makes a living through babysitting her neighbours’ children and grandchildren. She also has three tenants living in shacks in her backyard.

But since the lockdown started, she hasn’t been able to earn any money.“Parents took their children to their rural homes as soon as the president announced the national disaster.

“My tenants can’t afford to pay rent because they haven’t been paid. My son is unable to go out and look for piece jobs because no movement is allowed.

“It has been tough,” she says.

Sponono has registered for the R350 social relief of distress grant.

“I am turning 60 this year and will eventually get my social grant for old age. Since we don’t know how long the lockdown will be, I wish they can pay me the R350 until my time comes to be a pensioner,” she says.

Sponono says she has also registered with the social development department for food parcels.