The number of applications for public assistance nationwide in March this year was about 3,2, an increase of more than 4400% compared to March last year. This is the third consecutive month above the same month of the previous year, and the rate of increase is the second largest since April 7.
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare says it seems that the prolonged impact of the new coronavirus and the economic situation, including high prices, are also having an effect. There are 3,25,164 households receiving welfare benefits nationwide.