Over 14,000 to benefit as cash distribution commences for Region One students

Over the next few days, over $783 million in ‘Because We Care’ cash grant will be handed out to parents and guardians of Region One (Barima-Waini).

The distribution process commenced in the hinterland region on Wednesday and was overseen by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal.

The News Room travelled to schools including the Port Kaituma and Canal Bank Primary Schools where we caught up with parents.

Among them was single parent grandmother, Margaret Debedeen, who takes care of her grandson. His parents separated years ago.

“It will really assist me for him to come to school. At least with his uniform and them things.

“I feel happy for this because he could be able to attend school more regularly,” the tearful Debedeen said.

Shallonda Baird is another such parent. She has six children, four of which are currently in school.

“This will be very helpful because I have six children. It will assist greatly in buying things for them,” Baird told the News Room.

For Kenrick Giles, the grant has been easing the expense from his pockets.

“I feel much better because at least my expense and certain stuff will come off of my pocket.

“At least I can utilize it with the lil money I do work for I can do other stuff with it,” Giles told the News Room.

The sum of $11 billion has been allocated in the 2025 budget to facilitate this initiative, which has increased annually.

Each child who is registered in a public or private school receives $50,000 under the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant and a $5,000 uniform voucher- bringing the total per each child to $55,000.

In his remarks, Croal urged the parents and guardians to ensure that the grant is utilised wisely for the development of the children.

“This simple programme…has been a motivation to ensure that you the parents ensure that your children attend school in a timely manner and to ensure that we reduce the level of absenteeism.

“As parents, we have to play our part…So let’s make it right early,” Croal said.

According to Croal, the grant is just one of the initiatives to enhance the education sector. Other efforts, he said include the expansion of many schools to ensure each child has access to education.

“We are here to ensure that every citizen, parent, child and teacher’s future is secured and bright,” he said.

The process went smoothly without any disruption.