Dear Claudienne,

I am writing on behalf of MT, my ‘days worker’ who lives in St Catherine. She is 67 years old and is raising her seven-year-old granddaughter on her own as the child’s mother abandoned her at birth, and her father was tragically killed last year. She is partially deaf and has applied for PATH [Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education] assistance four times. The last time was September 2020, when I contacted the school for help with the child.

The guidance counsellor wrote a letter addressed to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security in Spanish Town. The letter was handed in, in September 2020. She has visited the PATH office several times but has not been able to get any information about her application. She is desperately in need of the PATH support as she is an elderly lady who does days work when it is available and has to rely on the generosity of others to survive.

Your assistance will be appreciated.

PB

Dear PB

Tell Claudienne has been in communication with the director of PATH at the Ministry of Labour and notes that MT was contacted. She was interviewed by a social worker and is now receiving a benefit.

We wish her all the best.

Dear Claudienne

For some time now I have applied for my NIS [National Insurance Scheme] benefit after working for 14 years with a company that distributed chemicals. I also worked at two other places that are no longer in business.

When I called the Ripon Road NIS office they said that my claim had been sent to the head office at Heroes’ Circle.

Could you please find out for me when I will begin to receive my benefit.

HE

Dear HE

Tell Claudienne contacted the NIS and notes that you have now received your benefit.

We wish you all the best.

Have a problem with a store, utility, a company? Telephone 876-936-9436 or cell # 876-484-1349 or write to: Tell Claudienne c/o Sunday Finance, Jamaica Observer, 40-42 1/2 Beechwood Avenue, Kingston 5; or e-mail:edwardsc@jamaicaobserver.com. Please include a contact phone number.