How to Avail Cash Aid Through DSWD's Educational Assistance Program

As we bounce back from the hurdles brought by the pandemic, it is important to continue our education and work on our careers. Though it's much more challenging given that the prices of goods and services are surging, trust that the government will provide support. Luckily, the Philippines has a long tradition of egalitarianism. The Philippine government prioritizes the welfare of society's most vulnerable and disenfranchised members (the poor, the vulnerable, and the disenfranchised). In order to maintain the tradition, the government has enacted a variety of policies and programs to aid those who are really in need.

The DSWD and Its Purpose

DSWD is the primary government agency responsible for developing, implementing, and coordinating social protection and poverty reduction solutions for the poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged. Among other things, it offers financial assistance to students who need assistance with school supplies, school fees, uniforms, and other necessities. In fact, as of Aug. 20, 2022, DSWD's Educational Assistance Program began providing aid to indigent students and their parents every Saturday until September 24, 2022.

DSWD's AICS Educational Assistance Program

The DSWD has a program called AICS, which stands for Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations. As a result of illnesses or deaths in the family, this program is designed to help people in difficult situations. It provides temporary assistance until the individual or family is able to get back on their feet. Death Assistance, Medical Assistance, and Education Assistance can be provided by this program. This school year, poor students are eligible for this DSWD allowance.

An educational cash assistance program offered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) offers grants to students who are classified as "in crisis". To apply for the program, applicants must process a DSWD online registration via a QR code, an email to the DSWD office, or by accessing a link portal to enter personal information. 

We have a DSWD Central Office but there are designated offices in the Philippines and each has its own URL link to access. Therefore, you have to follow the DSWD website of your local DSWD office in the province to know how to register online.

The Beneficiaries of the DSWD Educational Assistance Program

The said program is open for senior high school students in crisis, those taking vocational courses, in need high school students, and children who need financial assistance. As per DSWD, if you're a breadwinner, a working student, an orphaned or living with relatives, a child of a solo parent, you can apply for the Educational Assistance Program. Also, if an applicant has unemployed parents or those with parents that are working overseas, they can surely apply for the program.

Children of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and HIV victims are also the beneficiaries of the DSWD educational assistance program. Victims of abuse and calamities are also encouraged to apply.

The payout for elementary students cash assistance is P1,000, for high school students P2,000, for senior high school students P3,000, and for vocational/college students P4,000. But note that families can only receive cash aid for three students.

The Requirements and Application Procedures

For students to be considered eligible, they must present necessary documents including proof of enrollment, an authorization letter (if the student is not available), and a valid ID of either their parent or guardian.

To avoid overcrowding at the office, DSWD advises the public to register first through the QR code provided. Once applicants have registered, they must wait for DSWD's text confirmation of when they can visit.

Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo even said that the DSWD and Local Government (DILG) will sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Department of the Interior and Local Government units (LGUs) to help facilitate the program in distributing financial aid. Therefore, beneficiaries will no longer have to go to the central office. Payouts will be at the respective cities and municipalities.

Furthermore, Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo said that DSWD personnel will still manage the distribution of aid, even as local government units provide manpower support. The release and distribution of the educational assistance payout will be on August 27, 2022, and September 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2022.

DSWD is considering establishing an offsite payout system for indigent students who lack access to computers and the internet to register for the agency's educational assistance program online.

According to DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Romel Lopez, they will also set specific guidelines for the house-to-house distribution of the cash aid, possibly in coordination with local governments. As part of its plan to serve more students in crisis situations, the agency plans to expand payout centers in cities and municipalities with the assistance of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

What is the DSWD Online Registration Form for Cash Assistance?

Applicants who opt to apply for the Cash Assistance program need to fill out the DSWD Online Registration Form. Among the details requested in the form are the person's name, contact information, and home address.

Once the form is filled out, applicants will receive a confirmation text message from the DSWD office before submitting their documents. Hence, you must have this application form in order to be eligible for the AICS program.

The DSWD Educational Assistance Program is one of the government's initiatives to help students that are in need to continue their studies. After all, education plays a vital role in helping a person determine life goals. Hence, if you're in need of assistance, go to your DSWD local office and get started.

Lumina Homes: Affordable Investment that Last

One of the top community developers in the Philippines, Lumina Homes is also known for having a variety of value-priced housing segments and affordable house and lot for sale. With Lumina Homes, Filipinos have the option of purchasing durable, affordable houses and lot units that are designed to withstand natural disasters. This community is self-sustaining, allowing you to enjoy the pride of homeownership.

At Lumina Homes, you can enjoy amenities such as a community hall, basketball court, mini-garden and playground, and commercial spaces. Hence, if you're looking for the best house and lot in the Philippines, purchasing a real estate property with us is a great idea. Instead of renting, you can avail yourself of Lumina Homes' affordable properties and secure your family's future.

While you are getting help from the government, take the initiative to start on home investment. It is a secure investment to purchase a residential house and lot from Lumina. Choosing from over 50 key locations with affordable and quality homes that you can trust will leave you and your family with a home that will last. Send your inquiries today!