Cabinet expands housing assistance scheme for vulnerable youth and families

Thursday, 2 April 2026 05:36 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved an expanded financial assistance program aimed at securing housing for vulnerable groups, with a particular focus on individuals transitioning out of institutional care and families facing severe housing insecurity.

The decision builds on a 2025 Budget proposal to support low-income couples leaving institutional care, with the 2026 Budget further strengthening the initiative through an allocation of Rs. 2 billion. Under the revised framework, eligible beneficiaries can receive up to Rs. 2 million to secure stable housing, reflecting a policy shift towards long-term social reintegration rather than short-term welfare support.

The program targets three key groups including; young individuals below 45years who exited institutional care without stable housing, families with children living in unsafe or inadequate conditions due to socio-economic vulnerability, and adolescents and young adults who remain in child development centres due to difficulties reintegrating into society.

Addressing the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing on Tuesday, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the broadened eligibility criteria indicate recognition of systemic gaps in post-institutional care, where many individuals struggle with housing, employment, and social support after leaving state care.

The funding can be utilised across a range of housing solutions, including purchasing land, building new homes, buying completed houses, or renovating existing houses.

The move comes amid growing concern over housing affordability and the vulnerability of youth aging out of institutional care, a group often exposed to homelessness or unstable living arrangements.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by Women and Child Affairs Minister Saroja Paulraj.