A one-time grant of $1,200 will be sent to 120 vulnerable families in Cayman to cover at least one month of tuition fees at registered early childhood education centres.
The initiative aims to directly alleviate financial strain for those signed up to the Early Childhood Assistance Programme, a Ministry of Education press release said.
Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly, who is also minister of education, said the grant is a “tangible commitment” from government to ensure equitable access to early learning.
“Investing in a robust foundation through early childhood education isn’t just for our children’s future, it’s for the future of our entire nation,” she added in the release.
The programme is open to the parents or guardians of Caymanian children who turn 3 years old before 1 Sept. of each year and meet specific financial means testing requirements.
Under the programme, they receive assistance with the payment of fees of up to $500 per month to early childhood centres.
The $1,200 grant will be disbursed during December and directly credited to accounts at the children’s registered centres.
Any surplus funds will be used towards tuition fees in 2024.
The Ministry of Education said it will track monthly balances and notify parents when their credit is depleted, ensuring smooth transition back to regular payments.
“We are committed to ensuring this initiative benefits families effectively and responsibly,” O’Connor-Connolly said.
“We believe this one-time grant will make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable families and support their crucial role in nurturing the next generation.”
Further information is available at the Ministry of Education website.
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