“Because We Care” Grant Distributes Over $1.6B in Regions 1, 8, and 10

… enters third week, ensures every child has tools to learn, grow, and thrive

The Government of Guyana’s flagship “Because We Care” cash grant programme has entered its third week of distribution, delivering critical financial support to thousands of families across the hinterland and riverine communities of Regions One, Eight, and Ten.

More than $1.68 billion is being disbursed across the three regions as part of this year’s rollout, reinforcing the government’s commitment to educational access and equity, regardless of geography.

This year, the grant has increased to $55,000 per child — an amount that includes the School Uniform and Supplies Grant. It forms part of a broader $11.28 billion allocation in the 2025 National Budget, designed to benefit over 205,000 learners nationwide.

In Region One (Barima-Waini), parents of 14,491 students are receiving a combined total of $797 million. In Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), $240.5 million is being distributed to support 4,373 students, while Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) will see 11,747 children benefit from $646 million in support.

Administered by the Ministry of Education, the “Because We Care” grant reaches students at the nursery, primary, and secondary levels, ensuring consistent support throughout their academic journey.

Earlier phases of the 2025 programme saw substantial disbursements in other regions:

Earlier phases of the 2025 programme saw substantial disbursements in other regions:

Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam): $706 million for 12,844 learners

Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice): $638 million for 11,612 learners

Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni): $447 million for 8,145 learners

Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo): $595 million for 10,831 learners

These figures reflect not just financial investment, but also a broader policy focus on human capital development.

 Investing in Futures

Since its reintroduction in 2021, the “Because We Care” grant has become a cornerstone of Guyana’s educational support framework. More than just a monetary transfer, the initiative represents a national pledge to ease the financial burden on families and ensure no child is left behind due to lack of school supplies, uniforms, or basic learning materials.

Parents and guardians have welcomed the grant, saying it helps cover transportation, textbooks, uniforms, and other school-related expenses — a crucial support especially in the face of rising living costs.

The Ministry of Education has reiterated its commitment to transparency and efficiency in the distribution process and continues to encourage parents to ensure their children are both enrolled and regularly attending school, as eligibility is tied to attendance.

As Guyana expands its economy and oil revenues, programmes like “Because We Care” reflect a people-first approach to national development. By prioritizing education, the government is not only building schools, but also bridging generational gaps and preparing children to participate in the country’s evolving future.

With thousands of families benefiting across the country, this year’s distribution reaffirms a powerful message: when a nation invests in its children, it invests in its destiny.