With the Public Assistance and Child Disability programs of the Welfare Unit nearing capacity, a critical six-week review process for grant beneficiaries has begun.

The review will take place from September 9 through to October 18. During this time, it is crucial for beneficiaries to update their information and renew their cards, to ensure that only those eligible continue to receive support.

Acting Deputy Director of the Welfare Unit in the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment Jahn McFarlane, highlighted the growing challenge of managing the grant programs, noting that there is currently a significant wait list for new applicants. Thus, families whose children are turning 21 and are aging out of the Child Disability Program are urged to act as they may no longer qualify, but may be eligible for public assistance support.

McFarlane stressed the importance of beneficiaries visiting their local welfare offices to confirm their details and maintain access to essential services. “At this point we have a bit of a waitlist and if we’re not able to update the information then we're not able to add new applicants. So if a child on the Disability Program is now 21, while they have aged out of the CDP they may qualify for PAP, which will allow us to add new applicants to the CDP,” noted Ms. McFarlane.

During the review period, beneficiaries are required to provide identification, medical reports for those in need, proof of school attendance for children, and banking details to confirm active accounts. Failure to comply could result in a suspension of payments and a loss of access to essential services. 

“For those who do not come into the welfare office to have their documents renewed, there is a possibility that funding will be suspended. With the card, there are other medical services that they would be able to access, but if the card is expired, they will not be able to access those services. Therefore, it is very important that beneficiaries come in with the required documents to update their files and to receive new cards for the next period.”

McFarlane reiterated that the Welfare Unit is eager to welcome new recipients. As such, the department urges all beneficiaries to contact their local offices for assistance during the review period.