Distribution of ‘Because We Care’ cash grant to commence on June 24

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand announced on Wednesday that the distribution of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant will commence on Monday, June 24, 2024.

“We are very happy to report that we’re beginning the 'Because We Care' cash grant distribution on the 24th of June 2024,” Minister Manickchand stated in a video uploaded to her Facebook page.

“Every child who is eligible is going to receive $45,000. Please note that this grant is for every child and not just for every home. This initiative covers both public and private school children who are currently enrolled and attending school.”

To be eligible for the grant, a child must be registered and actively attending school and must return their textbooks. The distribution will take place over two weeks across the country.

Minister Manickchand outlined the rigorous process undertaken to ensure accurate and transparent distribution.

“We asked each teacher and each school to provide the names of children on their register who were attending school. This information was then verified by the Regional Education departments and further validated by the Central Ministry. The process is very smooth, transparent, and open, ensuring that every entitled child will benefit.”

Parents and guardians must walk with their ID card, passport, or driver’s licence to uplift the grant.

“If you do not have an ID, a respected community member like a Toshao, pastor, head teacher, or teacher can identify you. Additionally, if you are unable to collect the grant in person, you can authorise someone else to do so using a standard authorisation form, which will soon be available on mainstream and social media,” the Education Minister concluded.

This year, the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant has been increased to $40,000, coupled with the $5,000 uniform allowance, and will benefit 205,000 children countrywide.

In 2021, the government reintroduced the cash grant distribution for school-aged children, as per its manifesto promise.