The Care Dependency Grant (CDG) in South Africa is a crucial form of support for families caring for children with severe disabilities. To be eligible for this grant, the primary caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee with valid documentation, and the child must be under 18 years old, not cared for in a state institution, and require permanent care due to a severe mental or physical disability.

The grant aims to assist with the additional costs associated with the child’s high needs. Medical assessments and reports from doctors are required to confirm the child’s disability, and household income is considered to determine eligibility, except for foster parents who are exempt from the income threshold. The CDG provides a monthly payment to help alleviate the financial burden on caregivers, ensuring that the child receives the necessary care within their home environment. It’s a testament to the government’s commitment to supporting its most vulnerable citizens and their families.