Thessaly Region launches 10 million euro child poverty program

The Thessaly Region has launched a 10 million euro initiative titled ‘Integrated Local Action Plans to Combat Child Poverty in Thessaly’ to support 5,000 children facing poverty or social exclusion. The program, part of the ‘Thessaly 2021–2027’ framework and co-financed by the European Social Fund, aims to build a comprehensive social protection network.

Instead of direct cash transfers to families, the program provides an annual 500 euro voucher per beneficiary. These vouchers are intended to cover specific services based on individualized support plans, including speech and occupational therapy, psychological and social support, tutoring, foreign language learning, sports, music, and dance.

Targeted groups include children with disabilities, mental health issues, those in precarious housing, refugees, Roma children, and those in unstable family environments. Local municipalities will manage the implementation by creating registries of certified service providers, such as doctors, schools, and sports clubs, to ensure the vouchers cover the costs of necessary developmental and health services.