Public Assistance Shake-Up

By Val Matthias. Updated 3:14 p.m., Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).


Minister of Social Welfare and Community Empowerment, Shevern John, has announced that the government is conducting a thorough review of the public assistance list to ensure that only the most vulnerable citizens benefit from the programme. 

Speaking on radio, Minister John acknowledged public concerns that some individuals currently receiving support may not meet the criteria. “We have established criteria we are examining the list so that we will be able to do a cleanup, basically. We are going to ensure that those who are there are the needy ones,” she said. The Minister added that the department will also create opportunities for individuals who can graduate into independence, stressing that fairness and justice must guide the programme. 

The announcement comes as the government delivers on its campaign promise to raise public assistance payments to $500 monthly. Minister John explained that the rollout began in January, with recipients first receiving $360, followed by an additional $140 after the national budget was approved. By the end of February, the full $500 was disbursed. “That was to help our people mitigate the cost of living because we realize that as a government, that cost of living is really high in St. Vincent,” she noted. 

Beyond cash transfers, the Social Welfare Department continues to provide funeral grants for underprivileged families, school support programmes for children, and initiatives such as the “We Can” programme, which trains single mothers in agriculture to promote self reliance. 

Minister John urged patience from those still awaiting inclusion, particularly elderly citizens without income. “Be patient. Persons will come to you, assess your situation and determine whether or not you fit the criteria. If you do, rightfully it is yours. This is a government of equality, fairness and justice,” she said. 

The review of the assistance list and the fulfillment of the $500 pledge mark two of the government’s most significant social protection measures within its first 100 days in office. 

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