Welfare support may be a saving grace for some, but in Saint Lucia, the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment has reported that its Public Assistance and Child Disability programmes (PACD) are nearing capacity.
Currently, the program serves 3515, but there is a growing waitlist.
“…We would love to not have a waitlist and when persons come and we realise that they are eligible and need the support, that we would just be able to provide that support,” Acting Deputy Director of the Welfare Unit within the Ministry, Jahn McFarlane told St. Lucia Times.
McFarlane said that when it comes to medical assistance, the Unit also wishes to be able to cover everyone seeking support.
The PACD exists to serve individuals facing financial challenges.
Through an application process, those accepted into the program can access support based on the needs of their household.
Cash support ranges from $215 to a maximum of $465. Medical coverage includes family healthcare, laboratory services, medication, eye care, and burial contributions if the beneficiary dies.
To address the mounting demands for welfare services, the Welfare Unit has had to undertake a review process to determine those no longer in need and release them from the programme to make resources available for those on the waitlist.
The review process, which began on September 9, 2024, will last until October 18, 2024
“…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,” a Welfare Unit press release stated.
If individuals do not comply, the Unit could suspend their payments and they could lose access to essential services.
According to the Welfare Unit, a significant challenge is the inability to see applicants to the Child Disability program receive support.
“Families whose children are turning 21 and aging out of the Child Disability Program are urged to act, as these beneficiaries may no longer qualify, but may be eligible for public assistance to continue receiving support,” McFarlane said.
The Welfare Unit has urged all beneficiaries to contact local offices for assistance during the review period.
