Lithuanian municipalities offer support for newborns with one-time payments and gift vouchers

Lithuanian municipalities are finding ways to support families with newborns, with some increasing one-time payments or providing gift vouchers, while others offer only baby baskets and no direct financial aid, reports LRT.

In Druskininkai, new mothers like Karolina, who returned to her hometown after her studies, receive a one-time payment of 840 euros. She says the funds help cover essentials like vitamins or a stroller. The municipality has already paid out 1065 euros per child since June, with higher amounts for twins or triplets. To qualify, at least one parent must have declared residency in Druskininkai for at least six months, a measure to prevent abuse of the system, according to Mayor Ričardas Malinauskas.

Neringa offers the highest one-time payment at 1,200 euros, while Alytus district has doubled its support to 1,000 euros. However, not all municipalities provide cash assistance. In Kalvarija, families receive baby baskets containing gift vouchers worth 250 euros for pharmacy products, along with toys, mittens, and blankets. “We found another way to help families,” said Deputy Mayor Vaida Skuolienė.

Vilkaviškys, which has one of the highest rates of deprived families in the region, maintains its one-time payment at 370 euros and also provides baby baskets. Deputy Mayor Daiva Riklienė noted concerns about some parents exploiting childbirth for financial gain but emphasized the need for broader support, such as tax relief or flexible work conditions, to help families feel secure.

Some municipalities, including Vilnius and Kaunas district, do not offer one-time payments for newborns from their budgets.