As the cold season arrives, Ukrainians face rising expenses for utility services, making heating payments particularly pressing. Last year, families using wood or coal for heating received additional financial support through a joint project by the Government of Ukraine and international partners.
Under the project implemented by the Ministry of Social Policy, the amount of financial assistance for those using coal or wood increased several times. Last year, about 460,000 households received funds for purchasing solid fuel, totaling 3.3 billion UAH.
This year, with the support of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the Ministry of Social Policy has initiated the continuation of additional support for the population. This assistance will help cover a larger portion of household expenses for purchasing solid fuel.
On October 15, the government adopted a relevant resolution, which will allow approximately 500,000 households receiving benefits and housing subsidies to receive payments in significantly increased amounts. The amount of assistance will be calculated individually based on the household’s income level and can reach up to 21,000 UAH.
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The lower a family’s income, the larger portion of their fuel costs will be covered by the government and international partners within the established norms. Minister of Social Policy Oksana Zholnovich stated that this resolution allows for an increase in the funds reimbursed to low-income citizens, enabling them to purchase firewood for winter and safely navigate the heating season.
UNHCR also expressed its readiness to continue collaboration with the Ministry of Social Policy and the Pension Fund to support the most vulnerable households across Ukraine. UNHCR Representative in Ukraine Karolina Lindholm Billing emphasized that financial assistance has already shown positive results in helping vulnerable households pay for solid fuel and utility services.
Who will receive additional financial assistance?
The payments are aimed at supporting Ukrainians from vulnerable categories who are most in need. Therefore, the additional payments will be provided to citizens receiving housing subsidies and benefits for purchasing solid fuel during the winter period.
The project will be in effect for several months, and Ukrainians can expect to receive payments by the end of December 2024.
How to apply for assistance?
If you are already receiving a subsidy or benefit for purchasing solid fuel, you do not need to apply separately. The Pension Fund already has all the necessary information to credit the funds to your account.
If the benefit or subsidy has not yet been assigned and you need state support, you must apply for it at the Pension Fund following the standard procedure. You can contact the Pension Fund in several ways—online or offline.
This additional financial support will be a crucial step in ensuring warmth and comfort in Ukrainian homes during the winter.
