“Because We Care” cash grant : “This grant lifts a weight off my shoulders” – pensioner raising grandkids

Some 1952 children’s parents in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) received a total of $107,360,000 on Monday as the “Because We Care” cash grant officially commenced across the region.
This year, each student is receiving a total of $55,000, comprising a $50,000 student cash grant and a $5,000 school uniform voucher. The exercise will continue until Friday with teams stationed at various distribution sites to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
A total of 12,844 parents and guardians in Region Two will benefit from the Government’s 2025 cash grant initiative. With student enrollment matching the number of beneficiaries, each will receive financial support aimed at easing educational expenses. The Government has allocated $706,420,000 to Region Two as part of its commitment to supporting families and promoting access to education.

Region Two Regional Education Officer (REDO), Shondelle Hercules praised the initiative as a vital tool in empowering students and supporting families.
Hercules encouraged parents to make wise use of the funds in the best interest of their children’s education, whether for uniforms, books, school supplies, or transportation.
“This grant is not just financial aid—it is a symbol of our collective commitment to ensuring every child has access to the tools and opportunities they need to thrive academically,” REDO said. Emphasising the broader vision behind the initiative, REDO expressed deep appreciation for the national leadership driving the programme. She highlighted the long-term value of educational investment.
“We are truly grateful to the Government of Guyana and the Ministry of Education for their continued vision and unwavering commitment to education… This cash grant is more than just financial aid, it is a powerful opportunity to uplift every learner, regardless of background. I call on all stakeholders, teachers, parents, and community leaders to work hand in hand to maximise the impact of this initiative. Together, we can make a real difference in shaping the future of our children and our region.” Hercules said.
At several distribution centres, parents could be seen leaving with broad smiles, expressing gratitude for the Government’s continued support towards their children’s education.
Among the many grateful recipients was Seeta Gopaul, a single parent, who expressed heartfelt thanks to the Government of Guyana for the “Because We Care” cash grant. She shared how the support will make a significant difference in preparing her child for the upcoming school term.
“As a single parent, every dollar counts…Thanks to the Government of Guyana… I can now buy all the back-to-school supplies my child needs, uniforms, books, shoes, everything. I’m really thankful for this help,” Gopaul said
Leonora James, a grandmother caring for her two school-aged grandchildren, described the cash grant as a timely intervention.
“I’m raising my grandkids on a pension, so this grant really lifts a weight off my shoulders… Now I can get their schoolbags, pay for transportation, and make sure they have everything to start the term right. It shows that the Government understands the real struggles families face,” James said. (Raywattie Deonarine)