The Ministry of Labor and Social Policy (MLSP) is taking extensive actions to support Bulgarian citizens affected by emergency situations. Social Minister Borislav Gutsanov announced on the "Wake Up" show on Nova Television that 24 applications for financial assistance from fire victims have already been received.
Specialized experts from the Social Assistance Agency have been mobilized on the ground to help citizens prepare the necessary documents. Minister Gutsanov emphasized that those affected by natural disasters can count on financial support up to 7,500 leva, following an extraordinary decision by the Council of Ministers.
During an operational meeting, additional support options were discussed. As a result of negotiations with Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, specific financial mechanisms were agreed upon: a one-time assistance of 1,914 leva, an additional 3,000 leva, and 2,500 leva for electrical appliance restoration.
An important condition for receiving financial support is that the dwelling must be the only and legally owned property. Municipalities have the opportunity to apply to the Interdepartmental Restoration Commission, and agricultural producers can turn to the Ministry of Agriculture.
According to data from the General Directorate "Fire Safety and Population Protection", a total of 118 fires were extinguished over the past day. In one of the incidents, a 79-year-old woman was injured with burns on her lower limbs and left arm. 13 fires with direct material damage were registered, and firefighters responded to 149 signals.
Minister Gutsanov also reported on the progress of checks in elderly care homes. So far, 550 inspections have been carried out, 12 illegal facilities have been closed, and 400 people have been placed in appropriate conditions. All 81 state-funded homes are under renovation, and 254 new social services are being prepared.
Among the main challenges, the minister highlights the demographic crisis. As part of the strategy to overcome it, the return of Bulgarian citizens from abroad is planned through the electronic initiative "I Choose Bulgaria", which will be launched at the end of August.
Measures to support young families are also among the priorities. There are plans to increase the one-time assistance upon childbirth and review maternity payments. Gutsanov proposes raising the compensation to 1,200 leva during the second year and increasing the reimbursed salary upon return to work from 50% to 75%.
The Ministry continues checks in socio-pedagogical institutions. Regarding the boarding school in Varnetsi, special measures have been taken, including questioning the children in specialized "blue rooms" under the coordination of the Ministry of Education.