Sometimes there is not enough money to pay for all the expenses that are necessary during pregnancy. Then you can apply for financial support from the Federal Foundation of Mother and Child. You can only make this request at a counseling centre for pregnant people. The foundation's grants are intended to ease any possible fears pregnant people with money troubles may have about the financial burdens of being a parent and can help them to better support themselves and their child.
What can you apply for money for?
The assistance provided by the Federal Foundation for Mother and Child helps with expenses related to pregnancy and childbirth. You can use the money, for example, to buy maternity clothes or things the baby will need after they are born. Also, if you have to move into a larger apartment, there is a grant you can apply for from the foundation.
When and how can I submit an application?
There are a few requirements for you to apply for foundation funds. You must have your residence in Germany or usually reside in Germany. Also, your income must fall within certain income limits. It is best to ask a pregnancy counseling centre what this limit is for you. You can only apply during pregnancy, not after the birth. It can also be made only once per pregnancy. In the event of another pregnancy, a new application is also possible. Make an appointment with a counseling centre and bring your maternity record (Mutterpass) and income documents to the appointment. If you do not have German citizenship, you must also bring your residence permit. The counselors will help you fill out the application and you can also discuss any other questions or concerns with them if you would like.
How much money can you apply for?
The amount of support depends on your personal situation and is decided by the foundation. Admittedly, no one has a legal claim to support funds from the Foundation. However, if you meet the above requirements, experience shows that you will get the money. It is good to know that these allowances do not count as income. So you don't have to worry about that money being counted against your benefits. If you receive Unemployment Benefit II (Arbeitslosengeld II), you can also get one-time benefits because of the pregnancy. Make sure that the Jobcenter grant has been applied for and approved before you buy anything with the money from the foundation. Otherwise it may happen that the Jobcenter will not recognise that you still need the things you bought.
