A few years ago, nobody would imagine that introducing a programme assuming the monthly payment of a few hundred zlotys per child is possible. 1st April 2016 is the day that completely changed the family policy in Poland. Family 500+ means PLN 500 per month – initially for the second and each successive child and from 1st July 2019 also for the first and only child.

‘The circumstances around us may not be a reason to celebrate, but today’s 4th anniversary of the introduction of the Family 500+ programme is a true holiday of Polish families. Let us enjoy a moment of rest and smile. The experience of the last few years and many conversations with parents and children that we hold during field meetings or occasional events show that the child benefit is a big support. It helps fulfil dreams and invest in the future and gives breath to parents. It is something to be happy about even in such difficult moments,’ says the Minister of Family, Labour and Social Policy Marlena Maląg.

Support for nearly 6.5 million children

In February 2020, 6.483 million children in Poland were entitled to a child benefit, including 61,000 children in foster care. In June 2019, shortly before the enlargement of the Family 500+ program to every child, including the first and only one, the total number of children was 3.668 million.

From the beginning of the programme, i.e., from April 2016 till the end of February 2020, over PLN 102.107 billion were spent on the implementation of the programme, including PLN 1.165 billion for benefits for children in foster care.

The biggest amount of money – – nearly PLN 15.1 billion PLN – was granted to the Masovia Province. In February 2020, 1.032 million children in Masovia were entitled to a child benefit. Silesia ranked close behind it, with over PLN 10.6 million and 727,000 children entitled to a child benefit in February 2020. The third place was occupied by the Wielkopolska Province, with PLN 10.1 million and 648,000 children entitled to a child benefit in February 2020.

Modern like a Polish family

4.611 million – so many applications for a child benefit were submitted altogether in 2019. As many as 66% of them – i.e., 3.035 million – were sent online.

‘We have often encouraged recipients to submit applications by electronic means. This is a much simpler and faster option. We are happy that parents and caregivers increasingly often choose this possibility. I am convinced that this share will be even bigger in the next years,’ stresses Minister Marlena Maląg.

MFL&SP: every entitled person will receive a benefit

According to some opinions appearing from time to time in public space, the approaching economic crisis related to the coronavirus epidemic may endanger the payment of child benefits.

‘I can assure with full responsibility that the child benefit will not be stopped or suspended. Our current situation is really difficult and forces us to make difficult decisions, but support for other groups will not be given at the expense of families. Funds for the Family 500+ programme have been secured in the state budget and are not endangered in any way,’ assures Minister Marlena Maląg.