Bloemfontein - Free State Social Development MEC, Sisi Ntombela, has funded two youth projects in Odendaalsrus in an effort to assist them with the running of their projects.
The youth projects which received a much needed boost of R250 000, forms part of the province's Operation Hlasela which aims to accelerate service delivery, job creation and living conditions.
The Kutlwanong Unemployment Youth Initiative, a communications centre, will receive R150 000 and Bokamoso Theatre Group Youth Development, a gardening service project, will receive R100 000 in funding.
According to Ntombela 30 youth will also undergo experiential training in her department that will in turn provide them with experience they need to further their careers and a chance to be absorbed into the department.
According to Mohapi Theane, Chairperson of Kutlwanong Unemployment Youth Initiative, they are more than overwhelmed by the department's assistance which has exceeded their expectations.
"We appreciate that the department has seen value in what we are doing and vow to use the funds wisely," said Theane. He says the project caters for an estimated 200 members being served by a committee of eight members.
Theane said the project mainly helps people who need employment opportunities by providing them with information and research into various projects they may require.
Meanwhile, Ntombela said the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) was able to register 1 245 new grant applicants, for various grants. The town is estimated to have 10 733 monthly grant beneficiaries totalling R7 943 890 per month.
She said of the 122 crSches in the town, 17 crSches will receive an increased subsidy of R14 from the previous R12 contribution per child per day. The subsidy is estimated at R2 224 503 per year.
Premier Ace Magashule said that the subsidy is to assist in providing nutritional meals to the children. Magashule said the province will also provide training to 63 caregivers at crSches as to better equip them with skills to prepare children for primary school.
