“Now is the time to invest in our children” – Min. Walrond

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, on Thursday overlooked the distribution of some $7.7 million in the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant at the Mackenzie Primary School.

This will see students of the MacKenzie Primary, Pine Street Nursery and Children’s Garden Nursery benefitting.

Speaking prior to the distribution, Minister Walrond said now is the time to invest in our children.

(L-R) A parent receiving the cash grant from Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond MP

Our Children is the greatest investment that we can make, the education of our children is the greatest investment that we can make and helping and contributing to that we know it makes a difference. This is what this programme is all about, it is showing and demonstrating to our children that we care for our children all across Guyana and Region 10 is no less.

The ‘Because We Care’ cash grant was something that was promised by this administration and as soon as we took office it was something we decided to restore.”

The programme, the Minister said, seeks to alleviate some of the financial burdens parents are facing, particularly at this time.

(L-R) A parent receiving the cash grant from Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond MP

“Let’s say a child needed a tablet, which is what most of us need now because of the Covid and we are learning remotely. You can take the money and put towards the tablet. You need to use the learning channel, you can take the money and put towards a TV. We recognise as parents you best know what needs to be done to take care of your children, we know you are not going to leave your child undone”, Minister Walrond said. 

DPI spoke with a few recipients, who extended gratitude to the Government.

Malisa Allicock said the cash grant will assist her greatly.

Teachers of the Pine Street Nursery and Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond MP

“Well, I am very much grateful that the Government see it fit to help out parents with this money, you know because a lot of parents have it hard since this COVID-19. I, for one am thankful because I have my children, they have to get materials, now that they are not going to school, I does have to make these teaching aids for them so it will go a long way.”

Another parent, Mark Declou expressed similar sentiments. He said, “well, I feel really great about it, Government really helping us in a way, giving back to us and helping our kids and so on. It will help me to buy their school stuff and school clothes and bag and so forth.” The Government plans to incrementally increase the cash grant annually so that by 2025, each child would receive $50,000.

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