The second revision of the Regulation on the Fund for the European Aid to the most deprived (FEAD) regarding the specific measures for addressing the COVID-19 crisis, will allow Member States to use additional resources and request up to 100% co-financing rate.

European Parliament’s negotiating team led by EMPL Chair, ECR MEP Mrs Ďuriš Nicholsonová, reached an agreement with the Council on amending the FEAD Regulation which was adopted during the plenary session. The Fund for the European Aid to the Most Deprived supports Member States in providing food and basic material assistance to those in need, which is delivered through partner organisations. The Fund was established in 2014 and helps 13 million people a year, including 4 million children.

EMPL Chair, Mrs Ďuriš Nicholsonová welcomes the agreement: “The number of people suffering from food and material deprivation has been unfortunately increasing due to the consequences of Covid-19 crisis and it is the most deprived persons who are facing particular risks and further hardships. This amendment will enable Member States to continue delivering support for those in need without any delays and interruptions.”

Since the Covid-19 crisis has deepened social divides, inequalities and increased unemployment rates, the demands for support from FEAD has increased. Therefore, considering the circumstances, measures reflecting the current situation had to be adopted. The deal will allow Member States to use additional resources to provide the assistance to the most deprived persons until 2022. Member States will have the means to arrange advance payments to beneficiaries as early as possible and will be able to request 100% co-financing from the EU budget.

ECR Shadow Rapporteur Mrs Rafalska said: “The swift entry into force of the regulation will allow the immediate mobilization of additional resources, which is expected by families in difficult life situations, people with disabilities, elder people, the homeless and migrants.”