On August 22, Vitebsk / Olga Bogacheva - BELTA /. Over Br1 billion has been allocated in the Vitebsk region during July-August to provide assistance for the new academic year to low-income and large families with school-aged children. This support has been received by over 1.5 thousand families in the region, as reported to BELTA correspondent by Ivan Shchurok, Head of the Education Department of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee. In total, in anticipation of the new academic year, over 23 thousand families were surveyed during the last two summer months. The total amount of funds planned to be allocated to needy categories of families for school preparation by September 10 will be around Br5 billion. This includes budget funds, as well as assistance from sponsors – enterprises, farms, and commercial structures, noted Ivan Shchurok. Last year, the funds allocated for these purposes amounted to Br2.5 billion. To reduce the financial burden of "packing a school bag," a number of promotions are being held for parents of schoolchildren by regional retail enterprises, added the Head of the Department. For instance, retail enterprises are selling school supplies with a trade markup not exceeding 25%. All consumer cooperatives have been recommended to sell these products on credit and provide installment plans for up to three months. At their discretion, shops and department stores are organizing additional price reduction promotions for low-income and large families. Also, exhibitions-sales and extended sales of goods for schoolchildren are being held in the region. In total, from July 15 to August 15, over 170 exhibitions-sales and extended sales took place in the region, with a turnover of Br5.3 billion. The minimum consumer basket this year for equipping primary school children in the Vitebsk region will be Br1-1.1 million, and for secondary school children – Br1.1-1.3 million.

BELTA