The Regional Secretary for Social Solidarity revealed today in Angra do Heroísmo that the Five Ribeiras Day and Night centres will enter into operation in the second half of this year, thus extending this social response in the archipelago.
 
Currently, there are similar social responses on the islands of Terceira, Santa Maria and São Jorge as well as ongoing works for the construction of new facilities on São Miguel, Terceira and Pico. Moreover, the Government plans to carry out investments in this area on the island of Faial.
 
Andreia Cardoso stressed that the creation of this service "fulfils the commitment made by the Government of the Azores" towards the progressive development of a series of appropriate services in the area of health and social security. They are intended to respond to the "growing need for the provision of care to dependent people and developed in coordination with the existing health and social services already, always bearing in mind the best interests of the Azorean population."
 
The Regional Secretary spoke on the sidelines of a visit to the rehabilitation, restructuring and expansion works of Cinco Ribeiras Social and Parish Centre, a public investment of nearly two million Euros.
 
"This response intends to be a valid alternative to admission to elderly home, providing a space of support during the day and night. It also ensures the safety of elderly people with their desire to remain at home," said Andreia Cardoso.
 
This unit, under the administration of Cinco Ribeiras Social and Parish Centre, will have capacity for 21 users.