Rising number of students with a living allowance in Hasselt: "It is not a free pass, we expect a clear commitment from them"

In Hasselt, the number of students applying for a living allowance from the OCMW has increased significantly, rising from 158 to 206 within a year. Many students face financial difficulties, making it hard to rely on parental support. The OCMW closely monitors these students, requiring them to attend classes and work part-time. Additionally, requests for living allowances have surged due to restrictions on unemployment benefits, particularly among older individuals. Currently, there are 1450 residents receiving a living allowance, reflecting a rise of 169 from the previous year, with amounts varying based on individual circumstances.