€8 million aid program to support families returning to Evros
Concerns over demographic developments in Evros and the wider region were raised by participants at the 3rd Forum on Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, held on February 26-27 in Alexandroupoli.
Among those present was Sofia Zacharaki, Minister of Social Cohesion and Family, who described the issue as a major national challenge. She outlined specific initiatives that have been implemented or are planned to address the problem, highlighting the resettlement program designed to encourage families to return to Evros.
The €8 million pilot program will be launched in this specific region. It offers financial incentives for returning residents:
- €10,000 for those moving to settlements with fewer than 500 residents,
- €6,000 (plus an additional €1,000 per child) for those relocating to larger settlements.
The application platform is set to open by late March or early April.
The minister also emphasized the importance of early childhood support, noting that special attention is being given to children up to the age of four.
"A young couple living in Evros—or planning to return—needs state support," Zacharaki stated.
She further highlighted that the highest number of nursery school vouchers ever has been allocated to Evros. She assured that every child with a complete application will receive a voucher for nursery school and creative activity centers.
Additionally, Zacharaki reminded attendees of an ongoing €70 million program aimed at creating 20,000 nursery school spots, with applications from Evros being given priority.
