As the activation of the new debit cards to replace the old "food cards" draws nearer, the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services is reminding citizens of some key points with the new system.
This move is set to affect 24,313 citizens who require food support from the ministry. The ministry said in a meeting with journalists at their St Vincent Street office yesterday, it has already distributed some 14,000 cards.
In the meeting, Permanent Secretary Jucinta Bailey-Sobers and Deputy Permanent Secretary Vijay Gangapersad indicated they began distributing the new cards on December 5 at TT Post outlets.
These cards would be able to function utilising already existing debit card facilities (Linx machines) in groceries across the country. Gangapersad explained that the ministry recently completed an exercise to update their database; removing those in the system who may not have met the criteria.
The new cards will become active on January 2, 2020. If you have an old card, you are advised to use the remaining money on the card before January 31 as the cards would become non-functional after this date.
For those yet to collect new cards:
If you have not yet received a text message instructing you to collect your new card, you should receive one by the second week in January. If by the third week of January you have not received your message, you are advised to call the ministry's toll-free number at 800-1673. The ministry cautions that "this would be your last opportunity to collect your new card".