Residents of Bushbuckridge gathered in large numbers at Oakley Sports Ground on Friday, 20 March, as the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) rolled out its Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP), bringing essential services closer to rural communities.

The outreach, led by the MEC for Social Development, Ms Nompumelelo Hlophe, alongside Regional Executive Manager Mr Abraham Mahlangu, aimed to provide a one-stop platform where residents could access a wide range of social services. The programme targeted Bushbuckridge due to its large rural population and high demand for social assistance.

Community members were assisted with social grant applications, reviews, changes of payment methods, and enquiries related to the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 grant and disability grants. Various government departments, NGOs, financial institutions, and retailers were also present, ensuring that multiple services could be accessed in one visit.

Mr Mahlangu emphasised that the initiative forms part of SASSA’s commitment to improving service delivery. “We are bringing services directly to the people to ensure that no one is left behind,” he said.

During the event, the Department of Social Development also donated school uniforms to underprivileged children, bringing relief to struggling families and ensuring that learners can attend school with dignity.

Delivering a message of support, Kgoshi LM Mokoena raised concerns about the exploitation of grant beneficiaries. He urged the MEC to intervene in cases where loan sharks confiscate SASSA cards from beneficiaries. He called on the department to block such cards and issue new ones to protect vulnerable residents from financial abuse.

Community members welcomed the initiative, describing it as long overdue. One resident from Oakley said, “We usually travel long distances and spend money we do not have just to access these services. Today everything is here, and it makes life easier.” Another attendee added, “The help we received today was quick, and officials were patient with us.”