Parents nationwide have welcomed the government’s move to commence distributing the $60,000 “Because We Care” cash grant, along with the $20,000 transportation and $5,000 uniform allowances, describing the initiative as a major relief for the new school term.
Minister of Education Sonia Parag on Tuesday announced that the distribution exercise of the financial support amounting to some $85,000 will begin in all regions on June 29.
The Department of Public Information (DPI) caught up with single mother Yonette Hopkins, who said the support comes at a critical time and will help her provide the essentials her children need for school.
“It is important because I am a single parent and it will help me a great deal with the things my children need for school, including clothes, socks and other supplies,” she explained.
Nadia Kennedy said she has been a single parent for seven years, and the initiative has boosted her family’s spending power, especially on education-related items.
She said the grant provides her with an opportunity to equip her two children for school while easing some of the financial burden on household matters.
Meanwhile, Jaon [only name given] said the cash grant will be used to purchase school uniforms, clothing, books, and to assist with her child’s after-school lessons.
Another parent, Aisha Allen, who has two sons attending private school, said she is grateful for the assistance since it will help cover the cost of textbooks and other educational materials.
“With this support, I can purchase textbooks and prepare my children for the new school year. It is very beneficial because after taking care of other household expenses, parents do not always have enough left to cover everything,” Allen said.
Keziah Grant, a single mother, said the initiative has made a meaningful difference in her life.
“I am very thankful for the Because We Care cash grant. As a single mother who wants to see her son do well and be happy at school, this support has helped with his school expenses and taken much of the pressure off me. I am truly grateful for this assistance and the difference it has made,” she said.
Another single parent, Yairis Casique, noted that the grant will help offset transportation costs and other daily expenses associated with sending her child to school.