Hong Kong's children get priority coverage in the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance scheme, which offers financial aid to needy families. The Health, Welfare & Food Bureau made the statement today in reaction to press reports on child welfare.

Children are provided with higher standard rates than other able-bodied recipients, and there are a range of special grants pertaining to their education and school-related needs. The monthly standard rate ranges from $1,275 to $1,920 for able-bodied children and from $2,230 to $4,150 for disabled children, which is higher than those for adults.

School children are entitled to a full range of special grants to meet their educational expenses, including school fees and meals.

The estimated monthly CSSA payment is $7,664 for three-person households without income and $9,005 for four-person households.

To provide special care and protection for children, Hong Kong residents under 18 are not required to satisfy any prior residence requirements to be eligible for CSSA. In addition, recipients get free medical services.