There was joy and relief when 18 - years -old, Phumulani Mulaudzi, from Rietvlei Extension 2 in West Rand received a food parcel from the Gauteng Department of Social Development at Mogale City Local Municipality on Tuesday.
Mulaudzi, who was all smiles after receiving a food parcel from the officials, said, "I am happy with this relief from our government. I have been benefiting from this initiative even before lockdown, I am from a family of six (6), I live with my uncle, aunt and three siblings. My mother is mentally challenged, and she lives in Fochville and my uncle is unemployed. We depend on child support grants and piece jobs.
But, with the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent lockdown a year ago, we have been unable to do piece jobs. I am grateful to the Gauteng Government for this relief because of the much needed intervention, I know I will have a proper meal when coming back from school. Please continue to care for others who are in need. I can see you are a government that cares for its people regardless of race, gender and political affiliation", said Mulaudzi.
Mulaudzi's sentiments were echoed by 20 - years - old, Nkosani Morokong, from Rietvlei Extension 3, who said today I will have a proper meal, going to bed on an empty stomach is hard. I do not have an income; I make end meets through piece jobs. I am taking care of a my brother and 2 cousins aged 15, 13 and 10. We do not have parents as they all passed away. I wish I can get more assistance to enable me to attend school again and pursue my studies. The whole community is affected by the pandemic, but with the caring government on our side, I strongly believe we will succeed".
The Gauteng Department of Social Development is continuing to bring relief to the affected communities across the province.