Cyprus allocates €27 million for voluntary social care organizations

Deputy Social Welfare Minister Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina announced that the Cyprus government has allocated €27 million to support 142 voluntary social care organizations. The funding aims to assist vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, people with disabilities, and victims of violence. This announcement was made during the fifth annual dialogue between the government and voluntary organizations. The minister emphasized the strategic importance of these organizations as partners in implementing state social policy. Key legislative developments include a new framework for the Pancyprian Volunteerism Coordinating Council and community volunteering bodies. Additionally, the first nationwide sectoral collective labour agreement for these institutions was signed in January 2026. Cyprus is preparing to celebrate the 2026 International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development with over 300 planned activities. A dedicated volunteering day is scheduled for September to encourage retired individuals to engage with their local communities.