“Because We Care” cash grant can be utilised as parents see fit – Minister as distribution begins

The Ministry of Education today began distributing the “Because We Care” cash grant in Regions Seven and Nine.

A total of $11 billion has been allocated in the 2025 budget for the distribution of the grant to 205,000 children in public and private schools nationwide.

This year, the “Because We Care” cash grant has been increased to $50,000, coupled with the $5,000 uniform allowance, giving parents a total of $55,000 per child.

Speaking at the launch of the distribution exercise at the Little Achievers Nursery School in Region Seven was Education Minister Priya Manickchand.

According to the Minister, the entire region has been allocated a whooping $447 million to support the initiative.

During her remarks, the minister addressed the issue of how the funds can be utilised by parents

“They want to come and tell you that you don’t know how to spend this money. I know people who have taken this and bought their children’s clothes and still have savings to invest in something else in their homes…I know people who have taken this and said we don’t need clothes, but we need an inside toilet, and my children will benefit from that,” the minister said

“I know people who have taken this money and said I’m buying a small generator or I’m buying a water pump or I’m buying a boat engine. I know people who have taken this money and banked it. Because we know how to budget,” she added.