FAMILIES that lost loved ones in the KZN floods say they are grateful for the financial support they are getting.
This comes after it was announced that all affected families will receive R15 000 for the burial of loved ones.
The announcement was made by eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda on Tuesday, 19 April.
Nontobeko Jileka from Hammarsdale, who lost five family members, said: “We are getting a lot of support from our councillor.
“We understand that many people died.
“This is actually a big amount and much better than not getting anything.”
Mmeli Sokhela (39) from Clermont, whose four children died, said he was grateful for the help.
“This will make a huge difference for us,” he said.
Kaunda said this was made possible by a generous donation from the Motsepe Foundation.
“It will ensure that families bury their loved ones with dignity. Each family will receive R15 000 for burial costs,” he said.
Kaunda said families had the option of having the money paid directly to a funeral parlour.
“The parlour needs to be legally registered, tax compliant and have a bank account,” he said.
The mayor said families would have to submit a letter from their councillor stating they were in financial need, a death certificate, a copy of the beneficiary’s ID, a bank statement, or confirmation letter of the beneficiary’s account and a letter of authority from the Master of the High Court.
“All documents should be submitted to Amahle Khumalo or Andile Shange at the City Hall. For more information, contact 031 322 8200,” said Kaunda.
Meanwhile, a total of 84 facilities in KZN were affected by the floods and would need at least R184 million to repair.
This emerged during an inspector by Health Minister Joe Phaahla, his deputy Sibongiseni Dhlomo and KZN health MEC Nomagugu Simelane on Tuesday.
The death toll has risen to 448. as five more bodies have been recovered.
