Caretaker Social Affairs Minister, Hector Hajjar, on Thursday held a press conference to discuss the future of the National Program for Supporting the Poorest Families and updates on the "Aman" program. Hajjar clarified the recent disruptions in payments, stating that 'as of September 2021, 32,000 families have benefited from the poverty program, paid in Lebanese pounds. By December 2023, the number increased to 75,000, with payments in U.S. dollars. Meanwhile, 93,000 families are benefiting from Aman.' The Social Affairs Minister then explained the financial difficulties encountered since December 2023 due to international funding issues, which impacted program payments. 'Efforts are underway to secure an additional $300 million from the World Bank,' he added. Hajjar also announced the merging of the two programs, ensuring continued payments via BLF Bank and Western Union. 'Payments are expected to resume between September 15 and 30, with plans for regular disbursements going forward,' Hajjar concluded. Source: National news agency - Lebanon