28 January 2019
For a comprehensive description of the new cash assistance programme to be launched in February, 2019, click here.
I am not sure if I fit the assistance criteria. Can I still apply?
Yes, all asylum-seekers and refugees in Trinidad and Tobago can apply for cash assistance from UNHCR and have their applications reviewed by the assistance committee. To do so, please follow these steps. Each application will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and all applicants will be notified of the result of their request.
I applied for cash assistance. When will I know whether my application was approved?
Three weeks after submission of your application to Living Water Community (LWC), UNHCR will notify you via SMS and/or e-mail whether your application has been accepted or rejected. If you have not received a notification after three weeks of applying, please send UNHCR an e-mail at [email protected].
My application was approved. When/where do I collect the assistance?
LWC will contact you with the date and time your assistance will be available for collection. Generally, you will collect the assistance at Living Water Community’s office in Port-of-Spain at 109 Frederick Street, or in Tobago at the Red Cross Society building on Signal Hill Road, Signal Hill.
When my assistance runs out, can I reapply?
You can reapply six months after your last disbursement. There is no guarantee you will receive any further assistance. However, there are exceptional cases in which you may be eligible for assistance prior to this date. These cases include, but are not limited to, emergencies or family reunification involving dependents. The change in your situation will be re-assessed in relation to the information provided.
My application was not approved. Can I appeal?
If your application was not approved, you can reapply six months from the date of your notification. However, there are exceptional cases in which you may be eligible for assistance prior to this date. These cases include, but are not limited to, emergencies or family reunification involving dependents. See the steps for applying for assistance here.
If you believe there was an administrative error with your application you can contact UNHCR at [email protected] or +1 868 623 7056.
Isn’t it UNHCR’s job to give all asylum-seekers and refugees cash support?
Cash assistance is a benefit provided by UNHCR, but it is not a right. Additionally, it is affected by the availability of resources and the number of applicants. This is why UNHCR must ensure those most in need of assistance receive it.
Where can I find more information about the programme?
Please see more information on the programme here. After reading this, if you still have questions, you can contact UNHCR at [email protected] or +1 868 623 7056.
You may also attend one of our informational sessions. More details about these sessions will be announced at a later date.