Why am I not eligible? Dear Rev., I KNOW you are a Guidance Counsellor, so I figured you would be able to help me here. I am writing with respect to the government assist programme for school fees. I was told by my son's Counsellor that I am not eligible for the programme, and I was wondering why. I am a domestic helper, and I have three children in high school with no father supporting them. How can I not be eligible? Sandra Dear Sandra: The government's assistance programme, code name Costsharing, was designed through the Ministry of Education to assist needy parents with half of their child's school fees. The reality however is that some persons who are not in need of the assistance have been accessing the programme over the years. The government has therefore stepped up their efforts in trying to determine those who are really in need, however possible that may be. Under the programme, depending on the financial situation of the parent, the government may pay as much as 100% of the fees, to as little as 25%. However, the majority of the applicants usually receive a 50% assistance. As far as your situation is concerned, I am not sure why the counsellor would advise that you are not eligible for assistance. I am taking it that he/she did have an interview with you in order to determine eligibility. I believe however, that based on your situation as you explained same to me, you would have been a prime candidate for assistance. You should make contact with the Ministry of Education to have the matter addressed, if in fact your situation is as you All the best, Rev. You may e-mail Rev. Hyatt at letstalklife@hotmail.com or write c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston.
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