The purpose of a Foster Care Grant is to cover the fundamental necessities for foster children who are placed under the care of foster parents by order of a Children’s Court. The age range eligible for this grant is from newborns up until 18-year-olds, and it is given directly to their fostering guardians. A child in foster care refers to one who has been entrusted into custody with willing caregivers due to being at risk or having experienced abuse, neglect, abandonment, or orphanhood.
- To qualify for a Foster Care Grant
- You must be a South African citizen,
- You must have permanent residency, or be a refugee
- The foster child must be legally placed under your supervision care and the child remaining in your care
- The child must be younger than 18 years
If you want to obtain a Foster Care Grant, ensure that you pay a visit to the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office closest to your location and carry along all necessary supporting documents.
- Certified Identity document (ID) and the birth certificate of the child
- If you are a refugee, your status permit and refugee ID
- Proof of income
- Letter from a social worker or shelter program
- Lease Agreement
After a waiting period of three months, upon approval of your Foster Care Grant application, you will receive payment from the date when the court entrusted custody to your care. A monthly amount of R1 180,00 will be bestowed on you thereafter. Be mindful that renewal for this grant occurs every two years at expiry of the court order; ample notification regarding reinstatement requirements shall be provided three months prior. Those who channel their funds through banks or institutions ought to complete an annual life certificate attesting continued existence in person by visiting any SASSA office location closeby.
The Foster Child Grant will be suspended if:
- You are incarcerated or detained in a correctional facility
- If you fail to cooperate when your grant is reviewed
- When you commit fraud or misrepresent yourself
- When you fail to respond to requests from the grant administrator
- When the foster child turns 18 years old.
The Foster Care Grant in South Africa plays a crucial role in supporting the basic needs of foster children by providing financial assistance to their guardians. The eligibility requirements ensure that only those who are legally responsible and capable of caring for these children receive the grant. The structured renewal and review process helps maintain the integrity of the system, ensuring that funds are appropriately allocated and used. This grant not only aids in the immediate well-being of foster children but also supports their long-term stability and growth within a caring environment.
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