DSD budgets for disaster mitigation

During this time of the year, the Western Cape is usually battered by adverse weather conditions, many of which have a particularly devastating impact on vulnerable residents like those living in informal settlements and on the streets.

- 

In the event of a disaster such as flooding, the provincial government has a multi-departmental and multi-sectoral approach to mitigate and manage the impact on residents.

This approach includes the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) which steps in to provide humanitarian relief in partnership with nongovernmental organisations (NGOs).

Subject to the finalisation and approval of the allocation process, the department will assign R7,5 million in funding for the 2025-'26 financial year, in response to the growing need for relief efforts.

From Wednesday 25 June, flooding in different parts of the province affected over 30 000 residents. Various organisations assisted provincial and local government by providing immediate relief to indigent households negatively impacted by these incidents. This includes: Warm meals, food parcels, hygiene packs, blankets, clothing and baby items.