Parents and guardians in Region Ten have expressed heartfelt gratitude for the government’s continued support through the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant initiative. Many say the funds are helping to ease the financial strain associated with preparing children for the new school term.
Among the grateful recipients is Lucille Allman, a grandmother from the mining town of Linden. She said the grant would enable her to purchase all the necessary school supplies for her grandchild as the academic year commences.
“I feel good about it because times back you had little difficulties to get things together and such. I feel proud today that we don’t have to push our hands in our pockets to find all the money to do the necessary things for them,” Allman shared.
On Tuesday, scores of parents assembled at One Mile Primary School to collect the grant, which now totals $55,000 per child. This includes a $5,000 uniform allowance, a much-welcomed boost ahead of the school year.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, was on hand to personally oversee the distribution and interact with parents. He handed over grants to recipients, including Allman, and ensured the process unfolded smoothly.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill
Shanica Luther, another recipient and single mother of three, described the grant as a much-needed intervention for families like hers.
“I am a single parent, so it comes in handy. It’s gonna help a lot, especially with the cost of living or if you don’t have a well-paying job. At least you will be able to get the necessities to send the kids to school. I feel great because I usually go shopping for three terms with the money,” she said.
Minister Edghill handing over the cash grant to Shanica Luther
Curt Daw, a father of seven, also praised the initiative for its positive impact on his household.
“This cash grant will help my children to get certain things they have to get. They already said they want their bicycles. I always try to ensure they have everything for school. I’m glad for this cash. [It will assist] many families since things aren’t so [good],” he remarked.
Curt Daw uplifting his cash grant from Minister Edghill
More than $54 million is being distributed to parents and guardians of children attending One Mile Primary alone. The grant is part of a nationwide effort benefiting approximately 205,000 students this year.
Minister Edghill, addressing attendees at the opening ceremony, emphasised that the initiative is rooted in sound policy, not merely the nation’s oil revenues.
“Our intervention of lending support to parents to ensure an adequate opportunity to education for our children was not because of an oil bonanza. It was because of policy direction and the belief of the government that paying attention to our children has an opportunity to receive the best that is available. A country that pays attention to education is a country that has a great future.”
He also highlighted the government’s extensive investments in the education sector, noting that over 75 educational facilities are currently under construction across the country to enhance access from nursery to secondary level.
“We have spared no effort in ensuring our children receive the best,” he stated.
This year, the cash grant has increased to $50,000 per child, alongside the $5,000 uniform allowance. Distribution continues this week in Region Eight, following successful rollouts in Regions Seven and Nine.
By the end of the 2025 distribution cycle, the initiative is projected to inject nearly $11 billion in disposable income into the hands of parents and guardians nationwide. The grant not only alleviates financial pressure but also serves as a strong incentive for school attendance and educational engagement.
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