“BBW Well Received”— Prime Minister Drew Releases Figures

Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 10, 2025 (PMO)— The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis’ Budget Boost Wallet (BBW) program has been widely embraced by the public, demonstrating significant impact in providing financial assistance for essential goods and services. At a recent Cabinet-wide press conference, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew shared the latest figures highlighting the program’s success.

Launched in January 2025, the BBW initiative offers EC$1,500 in direct financial assistance over six months to eligible individuals earning EC$5,000 or less per month. The funds are credited monthly to a digital wallet via the JAD Platform and can be used exclusively for essential expenses such as groceries, utility payments, and mortgage payments to the National Housing Corporation (NHC) and Nevis Housing & Land Development Corporation (NHLDC). 

Prime Minister Drew reported that in January alone, the program assisted over 19,000 individuals, and in February, it reached over 20,000 beneficiaries, with a total expenditure of EC$5.1 million. “Most of these funds were spent on groceries, utilities, and essential services—exactly what the program was designed for,” Dr. Drew stated.

The BBW program has also facilitated bill payments, with over EC$700,000 spent on electricity and water services through the digital platform. This initiative has not only provided immediate financial relief to households but has also stimulated economic activity among small enterprises. 

The program operates through JAD, a locally developed digital wallet system, in partnership with the St. Kitts Nevis and Anguilla National Bank, ensuring secure and efficient transactions fully integrated within the local financial ecosystem. 

The Prime Minister reassured citizens that the program is sustainable and will continue to support those in need. He emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its citizens and ensuring that no one is left behind. “This is not just a program of financial assistance; it is a statement of our government’s firm commitment to prioritizing the well-being of our citizens and ensuring more money in your pocket to help meet daily needs and reduce financial stress, in the midst of the negative effects of ongoing global inflation,” Dr. Drew remarked. 

The BBW initiative exemplifies the government’s dedication to economic relief and empowerment for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, providing tangible support during challenging economic times.