Caymanian families squeezed by the rising cost living will gain new ways to tap government support, after the Ministry of Education and Training overhauled its Early Childhood Assistance Programme (ECAP).
The scheme helps cover the cost of care and education for the youngest learners.
To qualify, a child must be Caymanian and turn three before 1 September of the academic year, while parents or guardians must pass the programme’s means test.
The headline change opens the door to households previously shut out by the income ceiling.
Families earning above CI$5,500 a month can now be considered for basic funding if essential bills – rent, food, utilities and transport – swallow 90% or more of what they bring in.
Hardship applications will be judged on documented evidence and reviewed by the ECAP Oversight Committee, with any approval running for a set period and hinging on available budget.
Monthly payments have also been raised. Basic funding climbs to $625 a month, while supplementary funding moves to $937.
Parents struggling with the paperwork get help too. Designated third parties may now file on behalf of a parent or legal guardian, a step aimed at households that find the process difficult to navigate.
The ministry said the revisions track the Government’s Strategic Policy Statement 2026-2028, which sets equitable access to education and stronger early childhood support as priorities.
Education minister Rolston Anglin said in a press release: “The updates to ECAP reflect our commitment to ensuring that no Caymanian child is left behind due to financial circumstances.
“By introducing greater flexibility for families experiencing financial hardship, increasing funding support, and making the application process more accessible, we are investing not only in our children, but in the future strength and resilience of our country.
“Early childhood education is one of the most impactful investments we can make as a nation.”
The application window for the 2026 to 2027 academic year opened on 1 April and closes on 31 March 2027. Families who file by 31 July will hear back by email in early September.
Eligibility details and the online application form are posted at moeapplications.gov.ky
