Today, Minister Dara Calleary has got Cabinet approval for the extension of eligibility for the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance to children in foster care – a vital step that will benefit around 2,300 children nationwide.

As a once-off payment for 2025:

Children aged 4–11 will receive €160

Those aged 12–22 will receive €285

This is part of a wider scheme helping 114,000+ families every July, with over €54 million allocated this year alone.

In Fianna Fáil, we are committed to supporting families who need it most – and this is another strong step in the right direction.

Applications for eligible foster care families open today

You can apply at: http://www.MyWelfare.ie