Church of Cyprus Launches Island-Wide Support Program for Large Families

Abp. Georgios of Cyprus. Photo: Phile News

NICOSIA — On Nov. 13, 2025, Abp. Georgios of Cyprus announced the launch of a new support program for large families. The plan applies across the entire island, and applications will be submitted electronically, reports UOJ-Ukraine with reference to the Cypriot outlet Phile News.

The program provides financial assistance to families in which a third or subsequent child is born after Jan. 1, 2025. Benefits include: €1,500 at baptism; €1,000 when the child enters primary school, middle school, and lyceum; as well as annual vouchers of €100 for Pascha and Christmas until the child reaches 18 years of age.

According to forecasts by the Archdiocese, approximately €72 million will be allocated to the program between 2025 and 2039. Of this amount, €44 million will go toward direct payments to families, and €28 million toward annual holiday vouchers.

To participate, at least one parent must be an Orthodox Christian and a citizen of Cyprus; the family must reside permanently on the island and have a church marriage. The child must be baptized in the Orthodox Church.

Previously, UOJ reported that Cyprus President Nicos Christodoulides called on Turkey to take “responsible” steps to end its 51-year occupation of northern Cyprus and work toward reunification.

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