Greece to launch new food voucher system for vulnerable households

The Greek Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family, led by Minister Domna Michailidou, has announced a new food assistance system designed to replace traditional product distributions with electronic vouchers. This shift aims to provide citizens with greater freedom of choice regarding food and essential goods while reducing the social stigma associated with previous aid models.

The program is funded by €400 million in European resources for the next two years. While the average monthly voucher is estimated at approximately €60, the initial payment could reach up to €1,000 for some beneficiaries due to retroactive adjustments. The government aims to complete the first disbursement before Christmas 2026 to support households during the holiday season.

In discussions with Stavros Kafounis, President of the Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (ESEΕ), emphasis was placed on the importance of involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country. The goal is to ensure that even businesses in remote areas and small settlements can participate, thereby supporting local markets and ensuring aid is accessible nationwide.