Social welfare organizations, including the VdK, Kinderschutzbund, and Paritätischer, have written to Chancellor Friedrich Merz and ministers Bärbel Bas and Karin Prien, criticizing proposed reforms to Germany's Bürgergeld (citizen's allowance). They argue that the planned stricter penalties, such as the complete elimination of basic needs payments for missing three Jobcenter appointments, disproportionately harm children and single parents. Furthermore, the proposed work obligation starting from a child's first birthday is deemed unrealistic given the nationwide shortage of over 400,000 daycare spots. The organizations also object to the capping of rent cost coverage in the initial months of unemployment, citing difficulties in finding affordable housing in tight markets and the potential disruption to families' social networks and educational structures. The reforms are seen as increasing pressure on individuals responsible for children and relatives, with one-third of Bürgergeld recipients currently being families with minor children.