Recipients of the R350 relief fund have responded with mixed feelings to the help they receive from government as a temporary relief during the COVID 19 Lockdown and beyond.
This follows the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa of a number of relief measures to assist citizens to cope with the impact of the COVID 19 lockdown.
Although others expressed satisfaction with the grants, there are those who think that R350 is not enough to help people through.
Ms Rachel Makinta, a caregiver who received a relief fund from government, said the money is helping as she is unemployed.
“The money is helping, I was able to add on it and buy a few clothes and food for my children,” said Ms Makita.
Ms Nthabiseng Mokoele said the R350 is not enough and fair. “It is quite obvious after lockdown once we are used to receiving the money they will take it back then what are we supposed to do. Why can’t the government make it permanent for unemployed people?
“Government should have not increased the grants for the disabled, children and older people only to take that increase away after the lockdown. They should have instead improved on the R350 and also make it permanent for unemployed people,” said Ms Mokoele.
Mr Glen Ngobeni thought this might be a way for the government to try and change people’s perceptions about the virus.
“Government is trying to distract us. I think there is something major that is happening behind the corona more than what they are telling us. We are being quarantined for no reason, we are paid for something we did not do. Besides the R350 does not cover our needs,” said Mr Ngobeni.