More than 1400 Bay of Plenty caregivers have received School and Year Start Up Payments.
More than $676,000 has been paid to caregivers in the Bay looking after children who have lost their parents, or are unable to live with them, said Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller.
"Through the School and Year Start Up payments we ensure children looked after by family carers are provided with the tools they need to make the most of their education.
"The grant gives caregivers a top up to help cover uniforms, stationary, and other back to school costs. So far this year, the payment has assisted 1,400 caregivers in our region," Mr Muller said.
Caregivers receiving either the Unsupported Child's Benefit or Orphan's Benefit are eligible for between $400 - $550 per child, depending on the child's age.