This programme is geared towards assisting families adversely affected by the onset of COVID-19. The Minister encourages those affected by the pandemic to apply.

“To date, I want to report that we have 2,952 persons who have applied. By mid-month, we will be making payments to 1,223 persons. These individuals have been processed and they have been verified by the NIC. they have qualified to receive the support,” Minister Henry explained.

According to the Minister, the number of applications per district are:

Anse La Raye - 278

Canaries - 48

Castries 1,214

Choiseul - 84

Dennery - 131

Gros Islet - 384

Laborie - 109

Micoud  - 219

Soufriere - 195

Vieux Fort - 290

Henry says the number of applicants is not as large as first anticipated. To close this gap, he says, the Ministry will embark on a public education initiative.

“By now, we’d expect to have some more persons applying. Some way or the other our people may find that the process of filling in the form is intimidating. Therefore, we will embark on a town-crier. We will go around and encourage people to apply. We’re talking about persons in the informal sector,” he explained.

To achieve this, he adds, social transformation officers and other public servants will be used. “We have asked our 10 social transformation officers to head to all constituency offices to speak to empower persons to apply. This will involve all permanent secretaries and Heads of Departments and other civil servants to empower them to engage persons.”

This year’s Income Support programme will benefit 5,000 Saint Lucians with a one-time payment of $1,500.