Guardian and grandmother Margaret Ciprian said she received her $50 cheque on Tuesday and has heard that many other parents in the Ridge had also received theirs.

The back-to-school allowance has been running for four years and was introduced to help parents buy educational basics such as shoes, uniforms, books and school bags.

Ms Ciprian said she had received hers every year without fail.

“They (the cheque) come in handy for buying school bags, school shoes and whatever is necessary, she said while shopping with her grandaughter, Melinda Ciprian for new shoes this week.

“Kids always grow out of their shoes quite quickly when they’re still in their schooling years.’’

“It helps all around, but even if I didn’t receive the $50 cheque it wouldn’t make too much of a difference, because I only have one child too look after and care for,” Ms Ciprian said.

Ms Ciprian said receiving the extra money at the beginning of the year was the most appropriate time for it to come through, as that was when all the school items were generally bought.

Ms Ciprian said $50 was sufficient for the year for Melinda.

“I don’t feel it’s necessary for me to get a cheque at any other time of the year, whether it be mid-semester or during the holidays,” she said.

“Although I do need to buy new items for school about twice a year.”

The cheques were released last week, but parents who believe their cheque may have been lost in the mail or have any queries should contact the back-to-school allowance call centre on 1300 656 056 for the cost of a local call anywhere in NSW.