Pope Francis supports large families

Pope Francis supports large families and offers them financial assistance.

The Pope has decided that, as of 1 January 2025, permanent employees of the Governorate with large families, including three or more children, will receive a monthly bonus of  300 euros.

The bonus will continue to be paid until children turn 18, or until the completion of their studies, as long as it takes place by the time they turn 24.. Documentation from secondary schools or universities, will be required.

Moreover, the Holy Father has established that paid parental leave for the birth of a child will increase from the current three days to five days. The leave is applicable also to adoptive parents and guardians.

Pope Francis communicated his decision, based on his own initiative, to Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga and Sr. Raffaella Petrini, respectively, President and Secretary General of the Governorate of Vatican City State, during an audience granted on Thursday, 19 December, with instructions to proceed immediately.