Pope Francis boosts family support with new Vatican benefits
Starting in the new year, Pope Francis has introduced a new allowance of $320 for families with multiple children who are employees of the Governorate of Vatican City State. He has also extended paid paternity leave. Notably, the Pope personally endorses this initiative.
The benefit will be practical in 2025 and support families with at least three children. It is also available to families with children up to 18 years old or those continuing their education until the age of 24.
The Pope introduces the 300 plus program
Large families of employees of the Governorate of Vatican City State, which encompasses the majority of those working in the Vatican, will receive a monthly allowance of $320.
The Vatican has more than 4,000 lay employees, most of whom work in various offices and institutions of the Governorate of Vatican City State. This structure includes the Vatican Post Office, the Vatican Museums, the pharmacy, and technical services.
Paternity leave extended after the birth of a child
Additionally, the Pope has decided to extend the number of paid days off for fathers on a child's birth from three to five days. The right to such special leave has also been extended to adoptive fathers and legal guardians.
It was emphasized that he communicated these personal decisions by Francis to the President of the Governorate of Vatican City State, Cardinal Fernando Vergez Alzaga, and the Secretary-General, Sister Raffaella Petrini. During the audience, as stated, the Pope instructed them to implement these plans immediately.
