Social Welfare

The State Department for Children Services has refuted circulating claims that June cash transfers for orphans and vulnerable children would be delayed.

June 18, 2026 Reported by AI

The House and Senate failed to reconcile differences on the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations bill during a June 17 special session, leaving it deadlocked over a Senate provision barring politicians from distributing aid.

Top associations of independent welfare organizations warn of cuts to social services due to financial strains. More than 80 percent of those surveyed expect reductions in aid for youth, the elderly, and the sick. Diakonie President Rüdiger Schuch sharply criticizes the federal government and calls for greater financial support.

February 25, 2026 Reported by AI

The Trump administration has temporarily frozen $259 million in federal Medicaid funding to Minnesota amid a reported fraud scandal in social welfare programs. Vice President JD Vance announced the action, pointing to inadequate controls and a lack of cooperation from state authorities. President Trump accuses members of the Somali community of embezzling an estimated $19 billion, though media and the governor cite lower amounts.

South Africa's Cabinet has approved a new National Strategy to Accelerate Action for Children, focusing on basic needs like nutrition, safety, and education to improve child welfare. Despite progress over the past three decades, many children still face significant risks, and the strategy aims to reverse negative trends in health and wellbeing. It identifies 10 priorities to support parents, protect children from harm, and enhance early learning opportunities.

January 13, 2026 Reported by AI

The Splash Foundation, founded in 2015 by Libby Alexander and Simon Holliday, began offering swimming lessons to domestic helpers before expanding to children with disabilities, low-income families, and ethnic minorities. The charity has taught over 11,000 disadvantaged people to swim for free and this year received funding from the Operation Santa Claus campaign to support its summer Splash Camp for 250 low-income children.