The “Support for Young Couples Getting Married Project” aims to help marriages be built on a stronger foundation by providing economic, psychological, and social support through the Ministry of Family and Social Services in Turkey. Young couples who are approved for the program will receive a non-interest loan of 150,000 Turkish Lira with a 48-month repayment period, including a 2-year grace period. Additionally, pre-marital and post-marital education and counseling services are provided to support the couples.
In the province of Hatay, 2,321 couples have applied for the project, with 282 individuals accepted for the initial phase of the program. The approved couples have already started attending educational sessions focusing on topics such as communication and life skills in marriage, marriage and health, and marriage and law. The goal is to prepare and educate them for the challenges and responsibilities of married life.
Participants are required to attend the educational sessions, which cover various aspects of marriage, to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to build a successful and lasting relationship. The Ministry emphasizes the importance of effective communication and understanding the legal and health implications of marriage to ensure the well-being of the couples.
Süleyman Yıldırım, the Deputy Director of Family and Social Services in Hatay, highlighted the eligibility criteria for the project, including being a Turkish citizen, the age requirement of 18-29, residency in earthquake-affected areas, and a total monthly income not exceeding two minimum wages. Couples must also have no criminal record for specific offenses to benefit from the program, with only one individual per couple eligible for the one-time loan assistance.
Yıldırım emphasized that the project aims to support and strengthen the institution of the family through education and financial assistance. He mentioned that 282 couples in Hatay have already received pre-marital education, with an additional focus on areas such as healthy communication, conflict resolution, and legal aspects of marriage. The goal is to equip young couples with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful and fulfilling marriage.
The application process for the project began on February 15 through the e-government platform, and as of now, 2,321 couples have applied in Hatay. Out of these, 282 couples have been approved for the program and are currently undergoing pre-marital education sessions. Yıldırım also mentioned that for couples who are unable to attend in-person sessions due to distance, online training is provided to ensure that all participants receive the necessary education before tying the knot.
