Thuringia funds vacations for low-income families with 409,000 euros

Thuringia is providing 409,000 euros this year to help low-income families afford vacations, though this amount is about 50,000 euros less than last year. The state's Ministry of Family explained that the reduced funding reflects slightly fewer inquiries for the program. The difference in funds will be redirected to other family support initiatives.

The program is available to families with children who receive child benefits and are residents of Thuringia. They can book subsidized stays of two to twelve days at nine designated holiday facilities across the state, including locations in Oberhof, Eichsfeld, Hildburghausen, Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis, and Nordhausen. Families must apply directly to these facilities with the necessary documentation to receive reduced daily rates, which range from 20 to 30 euros for recreational stays and 25 to 40 euros for educational stays.

While it's too early to determine the exact number of families participating this year, as applications are accepted year-round, the ministry noted that demand remains stable. Last year, 241 families benefited from the program, with 142 choosing educational stays and 99 opting for recreational ones. The ministry also mentioned that religious organizations like Diakonie and Caritas offer similar programs for children from low-income families around the summer holidays and the start of the school year.

“

The demand for the subsidized offers is stable overall.