Lithuanian NGOs seek increased funding for children's day centers

A coalition of non-governmental organizations in Lithuania is calling on the government to significantly boost funding for children's day centers. They are requesting 16.3 million euros for 2027, which represents a substantial 72% increase from the current 9.5 million euros.

This proposed funding would enable support for over 510 children's day centers across the country, providing essential services to more than 14,000 children. The NGOs argue that the increased financial support is critical due to rising operational costs.

Factors contributing to the higher expenses include an increased minimum wage and general price hikes for services. Many centers are struggling to cover basic operational needs, with a significant portion of their budget going towards staff salaries. Social workers at these centers often earn less than 900-988 euros per month, making it difficult to retain qualified personnel.

The lack of sufficient funds directly impacts the services offered. Centers primarily assist children from vulnerable families, but resource shortages limit their ability to provide comprehensive care. Many centers also lack access to essential specialists like psychologists and speech therapists, further compromising the support available to children in need.