Grandparents are fundamental to children, families and society

"Grandparents play an important social role in the lives of children, families and society," said the Regional Director for Solidarity and Social Security during a gathering of grandparents and grandchildren promoted by the S. José Welfare Centre under the celebrations of the World Grandparents' Day.

"Grandparents have a wealth of life experiences and convey fundamental values to the identity construction of our children and youngsters. They also bring with them a wealth of emotions whose value must be acknowledged for their vital role in the psychological and social support to their grandchildren. Acknowledging this contribution should be our mission in the different roles we all play in society," mentioned the Regional Director during the event promoted under the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations.

Natércia Gaspar also stressed the contribution provided by the Azorean Government in the implementation of the Regional Network of Infrastructures and Services for the area of Childhood and Youth and Elderly support in partnership with Private Social Solidarity Institutions and "Santas Casas da Misericórdia"; its importance was also highlighted as a support tool for the everyday life of families.

Nevertheless, the government official drew the attention to the fact that this contribution does not replace the benefits brought by relationship between grandparents and grandchildren as "generations educate and influence one another."

"Today is the day when we symbolically pay our tribute, thanking all the grandfathers and grandmothers in the Azores, not only for what they have already done for the Region, but also for their contribution in the formation of new generations!"

According to Natércia Gaspar, in the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations, it is important to "remember the vast number of people who, in addition to being grandparents, have dedicated themselves to the community and volunteering, thus bringing to the public sphere the caring skills which are unique to Grandparents!"