Slash Kids’ Activity Costs with This Little-Known Financial Aid Hack!

Leisure centers and participation in sporting and cultural activities are crucial for children’s development. However, due to financial costs, lack of time, and sometimes limited access, not all parents utilize these resources. Unfortunately, it is the children who suffer the most. For instance, last year’s annual report on children’s rights disclosed that “71% of children from low-income families do not participate in any club or cultural and sports associations, compared to 38% of children from higher-income families.”

To address this issue, the Family Allowance Funds (Caf) or the Agricultural Social Mutuality (MSA) provide specific financial assistance that remains relatively unknown to the public. If you meet the criteria, this aid can help cover the costs of your children’s sports, cultural, and artistic activities throughout the school year, as well as day-care services on Wednesdays and during school holidays. This assistance, known as the Free Time Assistance (ATL), is conveniently deposited directly into your bank account.

The amount of aid typically depends on the household income and the number of dependent children, or in other words, the family quotient. “Moreover, even in identical situations, the amount can vary from one Caf or MSA to another,” according to the Public Service website. For example, the Caf in Sarthe offers its beneficiaries 100 euros if their family quotient as of January 31, 2024, is between 0 to 440 euros, 75 euros if it’s between 441 and 600 euros, and 50 euros for those between 601 and 700 euros. On the other hand, the Caf in Aine grants up to 80 euros per child per calendar year.

To be eligible for this benefit, parents must meet three criteria: have at least one child aged 4 to 15 years (the age requirement may vary by department), receive a family benefit from Caf or MSA, and have a family quotient usually at or below 700 euros (again, this varies by department). One significant advantage is that you do not need to undertake any special procedures to receive the Free Time Assistance. The Caf or MSA is responsible for checking your eligibility. If you qualify, your fund notifies you by mail. Typically, the payment is disbursed at the start of the school year.