Hope and dignity restored: Sassa donates school uniforms in Khayelitsha.

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) donated school uniforms to pupils at Khayelitsha Special School on Friday, June 13.

A total of 27 full uniform sets were handed over, which included items such as shoes, socks, underwear, school bags, and school uniforms.

According to Freddie Sidali, Sassa spokesperson in Khayelitsha, this was the agency’s largest uniform distribution since its local office was established in 2018.

Mr Sidali said Sassa allocated R5 350 for boys and R5 500 for girls. He added that uniforms were produced through tenders awarded to local cooperatives.

“The uniforms we are handing out were identified through teachers. It is our role to provide support, and we urge educators to continue identifying students in need and help parents navigate the assistance process,” said Mr Sidali.

Sassa previously delivered uniforms to 10 schools in Khayelitsha in 2023.

Principal Florence Velebhayi thanked Sassa for its continued support.

“We are grateful that they are always willing to help. Sassa has stood by us during challenging times,” she said.

The school's circuit manager Noloyiso Dube also expressed appreciation for the donation.

“These children are a gift from God. Having a uniform will boost their self-confidence; it unites them. Sassa has truly brought light and hope to parents who are unemployed,” said Ms Dube.

Chairperson of the school governing Body (SGB), Marie Ngoma, thanked both the school and Sassa, saying the uniforms would make a difference in the lives of children whose families could not afford them. She said she hoped more learners would be assisted in the future.