Secretary of State for Social Action and Inclusion visited social support structures in the Municipality
Clara Marques Mendes stated that the Faro Social Emergency Accommodation Center (CAES) is an example that should be replicated elsewhere.
The Secretary of State for Social Action and Inclusion, Clara Marques Mendes, visited on 26th March a series of facilities linked to Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS) in the municipality of Faro, namely social support services for homeless people, those in social emergencies, or people with disabilities.
The visit began at the Social Emergency Accommodation Center (CAES) managed by MAPS, located in Patacão. During the visit, the Government representative acknowledged that this facility “is an example that should be replicated” in other locations. Currently, there are only two such centers in the entire country – one in Braga and another in Faro.
“The success of this initiative stems from the collaboration between various institutions, particularly with the Municipality,” stated the Secretary of State after visiting CAES. She further explained that “these structures will initially be implemented in areas where the need is greatest.”
CAES back 2022 and today’s
Inaugurated on September 7, 2022, in buildings belonging to the Algarve’s Regional Directorate of Agriculture and Fisheries, the CAES has since served as temporary accommodation for people in emergency situations. With a current capacity of 45 beds and agreements with Social Security and the Municipality of Faro – which, in addition to an initial investment of around 180,000 euros, also pays rent for the premises – the CAES has, so far, accommodated 232 individuals, with its teams supporting a total of 379 people.
Moreover, Rogério Bacalhau, Mayor of Faro, emphasized the Municipality’s collaboration with various local IPSS organizations, particularly with MAPS regarding the CAES project, highlighting that they have been partners “since day one,” given that it is a “priority project.”
“This is a social response that belongs neither to the Municipality nor to MAPS; therefore, it does not make sense for the Municipality to have to pay the Central Administration to use this space and ensure such an important social service,” the mayor further stated. He expressed hope that this issue could be resolved through the transfer of public real estate management responsibilities to municipalities.
Visit to G.A.T.O.
In a visit intended to recognize the significant social intervention being carried out in the municipality, the Secretary of State for Social Action subsequently visited a shared apartment managed by G.A.TO. – the Support Group for Drug Addicts.
Visit to AIPAR and Portuguese Association for Cerebral Palsy of Faro
Later in the afternoon, the government official visited AIPAR – Association for the Protection of Girls and Families – and the Portuguese Association for Cerebral Palsy of Faro, gaining further insight into the local context, especially the work of those who support vulnerable populations.
