Carmel and Dolphin Secondary School parents welcome cash grant

For Mr. Victor Mahadeo, a vendor and father of three, the distribution of the Government’s ‘Because We Care’ cash grant is a blessing.

He told the Department of Public Information that the last year has been challenging due to the pandemic and the recent flood. The grant, he said, has come at the right time.

“Well, it’s something very good towards the single parent and towards everybody in the country.

“Some would see it differently while others would see it as a great help. If the Government would continuously do this to help the parent would be much grateful. I am a parent and I am much grateful.”

Mr. Mahadeo made these comments when Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, MP, spearheaded distribution of the grant at the Carmel and Dolphin Secondary Schools Wednesday.

Several other parents also commended the Government for the initiative.

Mr. Javin Sampson said it was “a good move” by the Administration while Ms. Anola Johnson said, “I am thankful and grateful for it. This is wonderful what the Government isdoing.”

The Foreign Minister, in his address, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to investing in the nation’s youth as they are its most valuable resources. He encouraged parents to use the money to do the same.

“Do us the good by ensuring that it goes to the upliftment and advancement of your kids. They are valuable and we have to include them as part of our development.”

Minister Todd further said the grant is not just an investment into the education sector, but the economy as well.  

“We are looking at development across the board and we are starting at the level of the individual here when it comes to education.

“This is targeted to the families, to the homes, to the households and this initiative is countrywide and does not discriminate. Each and every family with kids in public schools will benefit.”

The reintroduction of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant to public school students is another manifesto promise fulfilled by the PPP/C Government.

The grant was first introduced in 2014 valued at $10,000. However, it was discontinued by the APNU/AFC administration.

Since the PPP/C Government returned to office in August 2020, it has increased the school uniform and supplies voucher from $2,000 to $4,000 per child, which is being distributed in cash this year. Each child registered in the public school system will receive $19,000. Approximately 172,000 students will benefit from the $3.2 billion programme countrywide.