Urgent Complaint Regarding the Treatment of Senior Citizens at SASSA CARD REPLACEMENT Venues

Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to formally express my deep concern and frustration regarding the unacceptable treatment of senior citizens at SASSA payment points, particularly at Shoprite Park Parow. It is disheartening to witness elderly citizens forced to stand in long queues for hours, sometimes even days, only to be turned away and told to return the following day. This lack of consideration and proper planning is both unjust and inhumane. One of the most pressing issues is that young, healthy individuals are often seen sitting while elderly citizens, who are frail and in need of assistance, are left to stand for prolonged periods. Additionally, there are individuals queuing with cards that are only set to expire in 2027, while those with expired cards—who urgently require assistance—are forced to wait unnecessarily. A more logical and efficient system should be implemented to prioritize these vulnerable individuals. Furthermore, many children take leave from work to accompany their elderly parents, only to be told to return another day. This places an undue burden on working families and raises the question of how these seniors are expected to return when their caregivers cannot take additional time off work. If the Department of Home Affairs was able to extend their working hours during election periods, why can't SASSA do the same until all necessary card replacements are completed? The current system is failing our senior citizens, and urgent action is needed to implement a more efficient and humane approach. I strongly urge SASSA to: • Develop a queue system that prioritizes elderly citizens and those with expired cards. • Provide designated seating for seniors while they wait. • Extend operational hours or open on weekends until all outstanding cases are resolved. • Ensure that managers at payment points, such as Shoprite Park Parow, are empowered to make decisions that benefit the elderly. It is unacceptable that the government is failing our senior citizens in such a crucial aspect of their lives. I urge you to take immediate action to rectify this situation and provide a dignified and efficient service for the elderly who rely on SASSA. I look forward to your prompt response and a detailed plan on how SASSA intends to address these concerns.