In Russia, a single aid program now assists 10.7 million children and 390 thousand pregnant women. This was announced by the head of the Social Fund in an interview with RIA News. The introduction of this benefit marks a notable milestone in how family support is delivered across the country.
The benefit grew out of the Social Fund and, according to officials, represents a real step forward in consolidating existing measures that support families with children. It is described as a modern payment format that is simpler to receive and more convenient for beneficiaries, reflecting a shift toward streamlined, user-friendly social welfare in everyday life.
Chirkov noted that the program provides continuous support for a family from the earliest stage of pregnancy through to the end of schooling. He emphasized that no previous Russian child benefit had covered such a long period, highlighting the program’s extended scope and its aim to offer ongoing financial stability during crucial developmental years. The emphasis is on reducing the gaps between different stages of a child’s life and the various costs associated with growth, education, and care.
Prior to the expansion, more than 70 thousand children of mobilized Russians benefited from a single aid measure, illustrating how the system has historically tied targeted assistance to specific population groups during times of national need. The current framework seeks to provide a consistent baseline of support for families regardless of the broader context, while still allowing for targeted programs that address particular circumstances.
In conjunction with broader policy discussions, President Vladimir Putin indicated that participants in special military operations should be able to obtain preferential mortgages without age restrictions, signaling a broader approach to easing access to essential housing and financial services for those who serve. This shift aligns with a philosophy of expanding social protections and recognizing the sacrifices of service members, while also addressing housing affordability for families.
Legal and economic experts have emphasized the importance of clarity around what debts can be erased in the event of bankruptcy and which debts remain, as such distinctions can shape household financial planning. The ongoing conversations underscore the need for transparent, predictable rules that help families manage debt while maintaining essential living standards.