The PROAGES II (Social Stability Guarantee Support Program) has been simplified to expedite aid distribution to approximately five thousand Madeiran families. The goal is to make support "more practical and faster," particularly for households that, despite having income, face difficulties and do not qualify for traditional social support mechanisms.
The program has a budget of 2.016 million euros, to be managed by 17 partner entities, including Casas do Povo and non-profit associations, covering all municipalities in the region. Fixed aid amounts vary based on the number of dependents: 300 euros for families without dependents, 400 euros with one dependent, and 500 euros with two or more dependents. The maximum annual gross income for eligibility is 35,688 euros.
Regional Government President Miguel Albuquerque highlighted the measure's importance amid inflationary pressures and rising fuel costs. Implementation through local entities aims for better family outreach and more effective fund distribution, with applications being monitored. PROAGES II is part of a broader set of family support measures by the Madeiran executive.