abilities and interests, their social activities, interest in work, science and technology, art, and sport, as well as organizing cultural leisure activities. Over 40,000 such establishments - large and small pioneers' palaces, young technicians and young naturalists' centres, music, art and dance schools, children's railways, etc. - are attended by millions of children. The use of these facilities is not associated with any expenditure from the family budget; they are paid for by the state. The organization of children's leisure during school holidays is of great importance to families. Pioneer and sports camps are therefore set up in holiday areas - in 1981 there were over 63,000 of them. lO% of all places in pioneer camps are provided free of charge, while others are offered at reduced rates. It is intended that by 1983-85 half the places will be provided free of charge, and half at 20% of their true cost. It is also intended that during 1982-1985 additional allocations will be made to increase the number of sanatoria and rest homes in which both the parents and the children can holiday and be treated. Alongside measures of this kind, the state also aids the family directly through the provision of money allowances. Direct payments from the social welfare fund raise the family's material standards, solving the problem of satisfying its growing material needs. The system of such payments includes antenatal and postnatal maternity allowances, nursing allowances, allowances for the care of sick children, and allowances for single mothers and mothers of large families. Direct cash payments also include pensions granted on the loss of the breadwinner, and increased disability and old age pensions for those members of the family who are unable to work. Families with relatively low per capita income receive monthly child benefit. In 1981,
**Analysis**
The text appears to be focused on the welfare and quality of life of children and families, particularly in the context of the Soviet Union in the early 1980s. It discusses various initiatives and policies aimed at providing free or subsidized access to leisure activities, education, and healthcare for children and families. The text also mentions direct cash payments from the social welfare fund to support family material standards and provide financial assistance to vulnerable groups.

**Category**
Education, Health, Humanitarian aid and relief