The government will still need to dig into its own pockets to help the most vulnerable, says columnist.
"It is the poorest who will need the most help," says columnist Adriana Fernandes, referring to the billions of dollars allocated to combat the coronavirus. Many young people "have their main meal at school and may be left without access to a complete meal," she adds.
247 "The R$150 billion package from Economy Minister Paulo Guedes is substantial, but it is very, very timid in providing aid to the most vulnerable, low-income population," writes Adriana Fernandes in her column published in [publication name]. newspaper The State of S.Paulo.
"The government announced an increase of R$ 3,1 billion to the Bolsa Família program to eliminate the waiting list. It's not enough. The focus will also have to be on those families who regularly receive money from the program. It is the poorest who will need the most help. They will be exposed to contamination, have less access to healthcare, and needy children and young people depend, above all, on school meals," he says.
"These young people will be staying home after classes are suspended in several states. Many of them have their main meal at school and may be left without access to a complete meal," he adds. "The injection of resources will have to be direct, as an extra supplement for those who already receive welfare benefits."