Greece Distributes 150 Euros Per Child to 950,000 Families, Launches New Social Programs

Greece is rolling out financial support and new social programs aimed at easing the burden on families and improving living conditions. Minister of Social Cohesion and Family, Domna Michailidou, announced the commencement of a 150-euro per child payment to approximately 950,000 families.

This emergency aid, distributed with broader income criteria, is expected to reach most families immediately. However, families with children born in 2025 or later may receive the funds in August, contingent on obtaining a tax identification number (AFM) for the child by August 10. Michailidou acknowledged the payment isn't a cure-all but a "support that can help a family get through the month a little easier."

The "Neighborhood Nannies" initiative, designed to connect parents with certified, trained nannies possessing basic first-aid knowledge, has garnered significant interest. Within its first month, the platform received 5,000 applications from parents and 3,500 from aspiring nannies, with the first 400 agreements already processed. To streamline the process, particularly regarding criminal record checks, the ministry will now collect AMKA numbers (social security numbers) and submit them weekly to the courts, simplifying the procedure for applicants.

Additionally, the "Home Renovation" program has issued 41,000 eligibility certificates, predominantly for occupied properties. To boost the renovation of vacant homes, the government is considering lowering the ownership threshold required for program participation from 50% to 20%. This adjustment aims to facilitate renovations in cases of fragmented property ownership, such as when siblings co-own a property.

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The 150 euros is not a panacea, but it is a support that can help a family get through the month a little easier.