Greece expands Neighborhood Babysitters childcare voucher program

The ‘Neighborhood Babysitters’ program in Greece is providing financial assistance to families to help balance work and childcare. Minister of Social Cohesion and Family Domna Michailidou reported that over 7,500 beneficiary applications and more than 4,000 caregiver applications have been approved, with over 3,200 agreements already signed.

The program offers monthly vouchers to support the care of children aged between 2 months and 2 years and 6 months. The amount of financial aid depends on the employment status of the parent or guardian: full-time employees, self-employed individuals, and freelancers can receive up to 500 euros per month, while those in part-time employment, certain students, or the unemployed can receive 300 euros per month.

Eligible participants include working parents, those seeking employment, or students who have custody of an infant or toddler. The initiative aims to expand its network of certified caregivers nationwide to ensure families can find local care near their residences.