14 June 2017
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance
Cork based Fine Gael Senator, Tim Lombard, has welcomed the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (BSCFA) for 2017 that will provide a once-off payment to eligible families to assist with the extra costs associated with the start of the school term.
“The BSCFA is a very important initiative that assists families to meet the annual cost of uniforms and footwear for children going to school.
Senator Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) is based outside Carrigaline, Co Cork and represents the views of Cork residents in the Seanad
“The budget provision for 2017 is €37.4 million, while the rates of payment are €100 for children aged 4 to 11 years and €200 for children between 12 and 22 years.
“A large proportion of entitlements are being fully automated with no application required, and letters will have been issued to these families. Those who have not receive notification of an automated payment can make a written application; the form will be available this Friday, July 16th, online at www.welfare.ie, via SMS (text ‘Form BTSCFA’ followed by your name and address to 51909), or by emailing the Department at BSCFA@welfare.ie. Information regarding eligibility criteria is also available online or via the Department email.
“We could all use a bit of financial support when fees are suddenly amplified so I am delighted to see such investment in this important scheme. I urge all Cork families to see if they are eligible and apply for this valuable allowance.”
