Foster care families now eligible for Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance

Foster care families can now avail of the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance

On June 17th, Minister Dara Calleary announced that 'children for whom Foster Care Allowance is being paid' can now apply.

The Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance was introduced to help cover the cost of school clothes and footwear.

Eligible families chosen will receive a once-off, means-tested payment.

Families with children aged 4-11 before September 30th, 2025, would receive €160.

Those aged 12-22 before September 30th, 2025, and in education would receive €285.

The Department of Social Protection estimates that up to 2,300 children qualify for the allowance.

Minister Calleary welcomed the announcement of this new extension:

“Foster carers play an essential role in our care system, and I am committed to supporting them," he said.

"That’s why I am really pleased to announce that children for whom Foster Care Allowance is being paid will now be eligible for the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance.

“In the Programme for Government, we said that we would examine the Back-to-School eligibility criteria to allow flexibility for foster carers."

"And I am pleased to fulfil this commitment.

"We expect some 2,300 children in foster care will now be eligible for this important allowance,

"And I encourage foster care families to apply online at MyWelfare.”

Minister Norma Foley added:

"Foster carers look after around 87 per cent of children in State care, and they do so much great work every day."

"They have campaigned for years for the right to get the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance for the children they care for."

"And it is fantastic that this now has become a reality."

The Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance scheme is currently open, and foster care families can make an application online on www.MyWelfare.ie.