I can only assume they don’t want the kids carrying cash for some stupid reason. Probably because the scholar at the cafeteria register would have to make change.
“More likely because the thugs they’re warehousing in these government camps will steal it from the other kids.”
My guess is, that’s precisely why. Don’t punish the thugs to de-incentive them, do it by not allowing the children a reason to carry money. Oy!