Government Assistance Programs

noun A sum of money granted by the government or a public body to assist an industry or business so that the price of a commodity or service may remain low or competitive.

• The government provides a subsidy to farmers to help offset the cost of crop production.
• My friend told me she gets a subsidy from her workplace for her transportation expenses.
• I heard you can get a subsidy if you know how to work the system.
• Receiving his father's approval felt like a subsidy to his self-esteem.

noun a type of social security benefit in the UK that is paid to people who are on a low income or out of work

• The government's new welfare system, Universal Credit, aims to simplify the benefits process.
• Have you heard about Universal Credit? It's supposed to make claiming benefits easier.
• I'm thinking of applying for Universal Credit to help with my finances.
• Universal Credit is like a safety net for those in need during tough times.