Deputy Denis Naughten has advised parents who may be eligible for the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance that they still have time to apply for the scheme. The closing date for completed applications is Thursday September 30.
For parents earning €29,307 per year or less with one child attending school the grant is a welcome helping hand. This figure is €21,325 per year for a one parent family and both limits are increased by €1,549 for every other school-going child.
“Many families are facing a huge struggle this year to meet the cost of shoes and uniforms, along with the additional cost of books, and the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is there to help low income families meet the cost of uniforms and footwear for children attending school,” said Deputy Naughten.
“I would urge all parents who meet the income limits, or who believe that they may be eligible, to look into the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance. Return to school is a costly time and this payment will go some way to meeting book and uniform costs.”
For those wishing to apply for the Back to School Clothing & Footwear Allowance the limit is €563.60 for a couple with one child with the limit increased by €29.80 for each additional child. The corresponding figure for a widow or lone parent with one child is €410.10 which is increased by €29.80 for each additional child. The rate of the allowance paid for each eligible child aged 2-11 is €200 and aged 12-17 is €305.
Those who have not applied should do so immediately by contacting your local health centre or text FORM BTSCFA followed by your name and address to 51909 (standard text rates apply ).
