Free childcare scheme for disadvantaged families opens for applications

The Social Welfare Bureau said applications for its newly launched free childcare scheme for disadvantaged families opened on Monday, receiving 22 applications in the first two days, with seven already processed. Parents interviewed said the measure could ease childcare burdens, though some suggested extending service hours. Caritas Macau noted the new scheme replaces the previous priority placement system and is expected to attract more applicants, recommending year-round referrals to better meet families’ childcare needs.