The national Gás do Povo program, which provides free refilling of cooking gas cylinders (LPG 13 kg) for families in socially vulnerable situations, begins next Monday (24). Around one million families should benefit in the first stage.
The capitals that will initially be covered are Belém (PA), Belo Horizonte (MG), Fortaleza (CE), Goiânia (GO), Natal (RN), Porto Alegre (RS), Recife (PE), Salvador (BA), São Paulo (SP) and Teresina (PI).
The beneficiary will be able to prove their right to the voucher using the Bolsa Família card, Caixa debit card or CPF with a validation code sent to their cell phone. According to the federal government, the model will increase traceability, security and efficiency in the delivery of the benefit.
Magnification
By March next year, free cooking gas should be distributed to 15 million families, according to the government.
The Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, highlighted that the idea is to guarantee food security and quality of life.
Brasília – 10/15/2025 – Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, said that Gás do Povo will guarantee food security for the poor population. Photo file: Lula Marques/Agência Brasil. – Lula Marques/Agência Brasil
“Gás do Povo combats energy poverty, guarantees real relief for families’ budgets and protects the health of those who still use firewood or flammable materials for cooking,” explained Silveira.
Caixa Econômica Federal will be the institution that will distribute top-up vouchers, register participating dealers and validate the user’s means of access. Free recharge collection will now be made directly at accredited resellers, without the intermediation of cash payments.
>>Find out how cylinders will be removed through the Gás do Povo program
Delivery
The first stage of distribution of the benefit marks the transition from the previous format, based on cash payments, to a system that ensures the direct delivery of cooking gas.
“This advance makes the benefit more effective, reduces fraud and ensures that the resource reaches exactly where it should go: refilling the cylinder used in families’ daily lives,” the government said in a statement.
Right to benefit
The free gas is intended for families selected by the Ministry of Development and Social Assistance, Family and Combating Hunger (MDS), registered in the Single Registry (CadÚnico), with a per capita income of up to half the minimum wage (R$ 759.00) and registration updated for at least 24 months. Those who already receive Bolsa Família will have priority.
