Foundation
Fundação Bissaya Barreto
The Bissaya Barreto Foundation, located in Coimbra, is one of the oldest and most prestigious private social solidarity institutions in Portugal.
Founded in 1958, the foundation is recognised as a public utility entity that acts with a strong social, educational and cultural commitment in the city and in the central region of the country.
Since its creation, it has been dedicated to promoting the quality of life of vulnerable groups, including children, young people, women and the elderly, based on the founding principles of humanistic values and human rights, especially children’s rights.
Its work covers several key areas, including social issues, education, vocational training and culture. Investing its efforts in improving living conditions, the Foundation develops projects, solutions and intervention models that strengthen society and stimulate development in the areas where it operates.
It operates locally in the municipalities of Arganil, Coimbra, Figueira da Foz, Leiria, Mealhada and Montemor-o-Velho, as well as nationally, with initiatives such as the SOS Pessoa Idosa (Elderly Person SOS) helpline.
In the social field, the Foundation aims to prevent social exclusion and promote rights, citizenship and a better quality of life.
Noteworthy are its actions to protect children and young people at risk, through Casa do Pai, the fight against domestic violence and care for the elderly through the Luís Viegas Nascimento Geriatric Centre, Home Support Services and the SOS Elderly Helpline.
These projects aim to create a more humanistic, egalitarian and dialogue-oriented society, working to reduce inequalities and promote opportunities.
In the education sector, the Foundation invests in pre-school education, with seven Children’s Houses offering daycare and kindergarten, as well as basic and vocational education through the Bissaya Barreto School.
For training, it has the Bissaya Barreto Training Centre and the Professional Integration Office, created in 2009 in partnership with IEFP-Coimbra.
In the cultural sphere, it promotes multidisciplinary activities through the Portugal dos Pequenitos Park, the Bissaya Barreto House Museum, the Bissaya Barreto Documentation Centre and the Bissaya Barreto House of Arts, contributing to the preservation and enhancement of heritage and art.
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