A Struggle to Survive: One Pensioner's Monthly Battle with Finances
In a world where financial stability is a luxury, we often overlook the daily struggles of those living on a tight budget. Meet Noah Libbie, a 61-year-old pensioner from Bonteheuwel, South Africa, who is one of the four million strong receiving the Older Persons Grant. But here's where it gets controversial: is this grant enough to sustain a decent life?
Last Tuesday, GroundUp followed Libbie on her journey to collect her grant, offering a glimpse into the reality of stretching every rand to meet her household's needs. After deductions for a life insurance policy, she receives R2,200 of the R2,320 grant. A wise shopper, Libbie chooses Parow Centre for its proximity and lower prices, a crucial consideration when every rand counts.
"I had some tough times... Working in factories wasn't always easy. Sometimes you just want to walk out, but then you think of your children," Libbie shares, reflecting on her nearly 40 years as an examiner in a shoe factory.
Libbie's household includes her three daughters, son-in-law, and three grandchildren. While one daughter receives the R370 Social Relief of Distress grant, the other two daughters and son-in-law contribute with their jobs. "We look after one another. If you don't have, I give and you give me," Libbie explains, highlighting the importance of mutual support.
On grant day, Libbie starts her errands with a R1,000 withdrawal. Her first stop is Checkers, where she picks up groceries, including a special treat for her grandchild's upcoming 16th birthday braai. With Checkers' Xtra Savings, she manages to keep the total at R501.97. A quick stop at Fashion World for personal items, and she's off to Fairfield Meat Centre for meat, fruit, and spices. Next, it's Vis Fabriek for seafood, and finally, Sumthing Meat for polony.
By the end of the day, Libbie has spent R1,495.52, leaving her with a meager R705 for the rest of the month. "I must keep that for electricity, bread, and milk," she says. "You buy what you need. You're not going to buy meat every month because you can't afford that."
Libbie's trolley reveals the reality: no potatoes, no onions, and more essentials to buy. "I'm thankful for the money I get, but there's a lot I still need," she adds.
The support of her children is crucial. "Each one gets me something... When I go out, they'll give me breakfast money or money for clothes," Libbie shares. The family shares what they have, and they make do. "You must just learn how to work with what you have."
Electricity, which costs about R1,000 a month, is split among the household. "If the children don't help, it's a struggle. But you can't complain, because everybody struggles," Libbie says.
To make ends meet, Libbie sometimes sells sweets, eggs, doughnuts, or rotis, making anywhere from R70 to R300 a day. "Sometimes I make R30, which is at least bread money for me," she adds.
Despite her careful spending, the last week of the month is often a challenge. "By the last week, we really feel it... Sometimes by the 15th, the groceries are all done. But then my daughter will help."
And this is the part most people miss: despite the struggles, Libbie finds hope. "Life has its ups and downs. It can't be bad all the time." A powerful reminder that resilience and community support can carry us through the toughest times.
What are your thoughts on the Older Persons Grant? Is it enough to ensure a decent standard of living? Share your opinions in the comments below!
