Frances Fitzgerald T.D. has welcomed the announcement of the 2018/19 Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance scheme.
“The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is a valued support for low-income families in managing back to school costs. Families will start receiving this Allowance on the week ending the 13th of July, benefitting 28,024 children across Dublin.
“This year will see an increase in the amount allocated to the scheme with the Government providing €49.5 million for this important scheme; an increase of €2.1 million on the allocation for 2017. The Government is able to provide this increase thanks to our recovering economy, driven by increasing employment.
“This means more money to improve social services and social supports. Fine Gael is determined to use the benefits of our recovering economy to support those who need it most,” confirmed Fitzgerald.
The scheme is administered by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, overseen by Minister Regina Doherty TD.
Outlining the specifics of the scheme, Fitzgerald said:
“This once-off, means tested payment is paid at a rate of €125 for children aged 4-11 and €250 for children aged 12 years and over. The aim of this payment is to relieve some of the pressures of sending children back to school in September.
“In order to qualify for the Allowance, the applicant must be in receipt of certain social welfare payments or be taking part in training, employment or adult education schemes, with total household income below a certain threshold
“The vast majority of families who received this payment last year will receive it again this year without having to reapply. If you have not received notification of an automated payment by early July, or people looking who wish to make a first time application, you will need to apply. To receive a form, text FORM BTSCFA followed by your name and address to 51909 or email BSCFA@welfare.ie.
“For more information or to check your eligibility, log on to www.welfare.ie/backtoschool.”
