The Because We Care cash grant distribution got off to a smooth start in Region Six on Monday, with Regional Chairman Junior Basant saying the support will significantly ease the financial burden on families preparing children for the upcoming school term.
Some 22,810 students across the region are set to benefit from the government's flagship education support programme, with parents and guardians turning out at distribution centres across New Amsterdam and surrounding communities. No major delays or issues were reported on the first day of the exercise.
Each eligible student will receive $85,000, comprising the $60,000 Because We Care cash grant, a $5,000 school uniform grant, and a newly introduced $20,000 transportation grant, as part of an approximately $1.9 billion national distribution.
Basant, who visited several distribution centres, praised the exercise as well organised and said the support would help families purchase uniforms, books and other essential school supplies ahead of the new term.
He noted the grant has increased substantially since it was reintroduced, which he said reflected the government's commitment to education support nationwide.
Distribution this week covers the New Amsterdam and East Bank areas, with the exercise moving into the Corentyne as the week progresses. Basant urged parents to consult the schedule published by the Department of Education, noting that multiple schools were being accommodated at some centres.

Region Six Chairman Junior Basant