BEIJING — The central government has allocated 1.94 billion yuan ($291.3 million) to the basic living allowance it gives to orphans and AIDS-infected children, the Ministry of Finance said on August 8.

It has channeled 700 million yuan ($105.1 million) into the allowance fund, according to a statement on the ministry’s website.

Coupled with the 1.24 billion yuan already extended this year, the central government has allocated 1.94 billion yuan.

Orphans and children living with HIV/AIDS in China’s less developed western regions receive 400 yuan each month currently, while those in central areas and eastern provinces get 300 yuan and 200 yuan every month.

China has more than 500,000 orphans and children living with HIV/AIDS.