Single Mothers Struggling Despite Germany’s Coronavirus Rescue Packages

Pototschnik hasn't ruled out claiming benefits, but worries the 600 euros her daughter earns each month in her apprenticeship will be taken into account.

"It's not right for me to live off my daughter. That money is for her future."

The family ministry told AFP the government was aware of the plight of single parents and had introduced special measures to support them, such as greater tax relief, emergency daycare and partial wage compensation for those unable to work because of school closures.

All families in Germany will also receive a bonus of 300 euros per child this autumn.

Schoenfeld, who asked her daughter's teacher if she could stop printing out assignments in color to save money, described the bonus as "a joke".

'Exhausted' 

Pototschnik has recently started volunteering, handing out meals to homeless people.

"Sometimes I wonder: will it be me queueing for food next year?"

Schoenfeld said more than anything, single parents needed a break from the relentless cycle of running the household, keeping the children happy and worrying about money and the virus.

"Single mums need to make more noise," she said. "But we're exhausted." 

(Writer: Michelle Fitzpatrick) 

Source: http://u.afp.com/3BW6