The President of the Government assured today that the Regional Government will remain faithful to the goal of "leaving no one behind," which is an important factor to strengthen social cohesion on several Azorean islands.

"This responsibility of public bodies to assist those who are in a more fragile situation is fully taken by the Regional Government not only by itself, but also in partnership with numerous institutions," said Vasco Cordeiro.

Speaking at the opening of the Day Centre of "Santa Casa da Misericórdia" of Vila do Porto, the President of the Government stressed the need, under the new funding model of IPSS (private social solidarity institutions), to seize every opportunity for a careful and rigorous management of the available resources.

"This is fundamental these days, not only to strengthen the financial capacity of institutions but also to free resources that will be used to help those who it most," stressed Vasco Cordeiro.

In his speech, the President of the Government also considered that the "Santa Casa da Misericórdia" of Vila do Porto, like other institutions throughout the Azores, is an essential partner in the provision of a response to social issues at various levels.

"We are aware of the urgent need to find solutions in order to increase the response capacity of Elderly Homes. The Government of the Azores has been working on the subject and is considering some possibilities that are currently under analysis," stressed Vasco Cordeiro.

The Day Centre of "Santa Casa da Misericórdia" of Vila do Porto, an infrastructures that did not exist on the island of Santa Maria, represents annual investment of the Regional Government over 50 thousand Euros. It will provide 20 new vacancies and includes food, hygiene and Comfort care, psychosocial support as well as social, cultural, recreational and occupational activities, religious assistance, among other services.