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Tag: social welfare

  • Christmas parcels — Christmas parcels: Limassol Distributes 350 Christmas Love Parcels to Families in Need

    Christmas parcels — Christmas parcels: Limassol Distributes 350 Christmas Love Parcels to Families in Need

    christmas parcels — christmas parcels — Limassol municipality is spreading festive cheer by distributing 350 Christmas love parcels to families facing financial difficulties. This initiative, organised by the municipality’s Social Grocery Stores, commenced at 10.30am on Thursday and aims to provide essential supplies during the holiday season.

    The handout was attended by Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis and Athena Spyrou, the president of the municipality’s social welfare committee. Mayor Armeftis announced that 200 of the parcels have been allocated for registered beneficiaries of the Social Grocery Store, while the remaining parcels will reach other individuals and families in need.

    Armeftis expressed gratitude to the companies that donated products, highlighting the importance of community support during these challenging times. “The existence of this grocery store is essential because needs exist,” he stated, assuring that Limassol’s Social Grocery Store will continue its operations for as long as necessary.

    Athena Spyrou elaborated on the contents of the parcels, which extend beyond just basic necessities. Each parcel includes sweets, festive treats, fresh meat, supermarket vouchers, and even toys for children. “Each parcel is worth more than €30, and we believe every household will be significantly supported,” she mentioned.

    Moreover, specialised parcels have been prepared for specific cases, catering to larger families or individuals with diabetes. Spyrou noted, “We improve every time and become more targeted towards those in need,” and expressed hope that one day, Social Grocery Stores will no longer be necessary. “But for as long as they are needed, we will be here,” she promised.

  • 1974 war — Injured 1974 War Veterans Granted Increased Benefits

    1974 war — Injured 1974 War Veterans Granted Increased Benefits

    1974 war — Injured 1974 war veterans are set to receive increased benefits following a recent decision by the Council of Ministers. This move comes as part of an effort to enhance support for those who have sustained disabilities as a result of their service in the 1974 conflict.

    974 war: Significant Increase in Allowances

    Social Welfare Deputy Minister Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellinas announced that veterans receiving institutional care will see their monthly allowances rise from €745 to €1,300. This substantial increase aims to improve the quality of life for veterans who require additional financial support.

    Broader Impact on Home Care Support

    The new amendments not only benefit those in institutional care but are also expected to lead to an increase in the number of beneficiaries receiving allowances for home care, whether occasional or full-time. This broader impact underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of veterans and ensuring they receive adequate support.

    Inclusion in Government Care Plans

    Additionally, the cabinet has approved amendments to include these veterans in the government’s care plan for prisoners of war and other victims of war. This inclusion is a significant step toward recognising the sacrifices made by veterans and ensures they have access to necessary resources.

    Addressing Past Subsidy Issues

    In recent years, the government faced criticism regarding the allocation of subsidies to former war prisoners of the 1974 conflict. Allegations surfaced that some individuals received minimal payments, as low as €8 per month, while others were granted subsidies without having been actual war prisoners. The House refugee committee announced in 2024 that it would take measures to rectify these issues.

    Ongoing Efforts for Accurate Records

    The committee discovered multiple registers of those affected, linked to social insurance benefits, which contributed to discrepancies in the distribution of support. The government is now focused on ensuring accurate records to prevent future misallocations and to provide rightful benefits to those in need.

  • Social care — Cyprus Introduces Digital Platform for Enhanced Access to Social Care Services

    Social care — Cyprus Introduces Digital Platform for Enhanced Access to Social Care Services

    A new digital platform for social care services has been launched in Cyprus, providing citizens with clear and immediate access to all approved facilities monitored by the social welfare deputy ministry. This initiative was announced on Friday and is aimed at modernising the country’s social welfare framework.

    The platform, which can be accessed at socialcare.org.cy, consolidates information regarding social care services, making it easier for users to locate the assistance they need. Facilities are organised by district and municipality, population group, and type of programme, ensuring a comprehensive overview for all users.

    Social care: Comprehensive Listings for Diverse Needs

    The new platform features a wide range of social care structures, including:

    • Homes for the elderly and disabled
    • Nurseries
    • Supported housing for independent living
    • Adult day centres
    • Community-based caregivers
    • Child protection services
    • Employment centres
    • Living units for people with disabilities

    Each entry is equipped with contact details, allowing users to connect with the relevant services swiftly. This is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking specialised support, as the platform also highlights various programmes tailored for specific needs.

    Modernising Access to Welfare Services

    The launch of this digital platform is part of a broader strategy by the ministry to enhance transparency and accessibility of social welfare services in Cyprus. By creating a single digital environment that maps all social care facilities, officials aim to improve public access to necessary support and protection services.

    According to the ministry, the introduction of this platform is expected to facilitate easier navigation through the social care landscape, allowing individuals to find the help they require without unnecessary barriers.

    Current Accessibility and Future Enhancements

    As of Friday evening, the website is available only in Greek, which may pose a limitation for non-Greek speakers. However, officials have indicated that further enhancements and translations may be considered in the future to broaden the reach of this important resource.