EUR 220 million under the Regional Development Program in support of vulnerable groups

More than 220 million euros under the Regional Development Program 2021-2027 are provided for the implementation of measures and activities in support of vulnerable groups and disadvantaged people.

The Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, arch. Stefan Asparuhov at the conference "Policies for improving the living conditions of vulnerable groups at municipal and national level."

Of the total resource, 76 million euros are for the improvement of health and social infrastructure, which will provide services for early childhood development, prevention and early intervention of disabilities for children and others. Investments in health infrastructure will give priority to disease prevention, as well as support for the treatment of cardiovascular, oncological and neurological diseases, development of telemedicine, mobile offices, supply of specialized equipment for hospitals and others. Investments in the structures for long-term treatment and rehabilitation, as well as for the establishment of geriatric and palliative care centers will be prioritized.

Over € 19 million is earmarked for the provision of modern and affordable housing, including investment in the renovation and / or construction and equipment of housing, including municipal housing, as well as the own housing of vulnerable groups.

About 127m euros are for green urban infrastructure, including the construction of public recreation areas and green spaces, as well as neighborhood renovation activities and more.

"Our efforts in the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works are aimed at increasing the economic growth of the Bulgarian regions, as well as promoting a balanced territorial development," said the Deputy Minister. These efforts are supported by European funding.

Asparuhov stressed that in addition to funding to improve the living conditions of vulnerable people, it is necessary for state institutions and representatives of the non-governmental sector to work together to end housing poverty. "To this end, it is important to identify and promote policies aimed at improving people's quality of life, social inclusion and poverty reduction, as well as the sustainable integration of marginalized communities," said architect Asparuhov.

He was adamant that the main goal of regional development policy is to create economically strong and sustainable regions through targeted investment and measures to address negative demographic trends and reduce regional disparities in population.