The municipal executive of Ponta Delgada formally recognized the trajectory of Casa do Gaiato de São Miguel, an institution celebrating 75 years of activity. The congratulatory vote highlights the work carried out over decades in the protection, education, and integration of children and young people.
Casa do Gaiato de São Miguel is part of the Work of Padre Américo, founded in 1940. The institution arrived on the island of São Miguel in 1951, at the request of the then President of the General Board of the Autonomous District of Ponta Delgada, Engineer Pedro de Chaves Cymbron Borges. Initially, it operated at the facilities of the Regional Agrarian Station in São Gonçalo, under the direction of Father Elias André.
With increasing demand, Casa do Gaiato moved in 1956 to a property in Monte Alegre, Capelas, where it was based for many years. Throughout its history, the organization has adapted to the needs of the children and young people it accommodates, strengthening its presence in the Azores.
A new phase began in 2011 with the relocation of its facilities to new residences in Ponta Delgada, distributed across the parishes of São Pedro, Fajã de Baixo, and Santa Clara. Currently, Casa do Gaiato, chaired by Father Norberto Toste Brum, can accommodate young people aged 5 to 25, including two emergency beds.
The President of the Ponta Delgada Municipal Council, Pedro Nascimento Cabral, emphasized the institution's fundamental role in protecting and developing children and young people, and its deep connection with the community. He highlighted that the celebration is an opportunity to recognize the efforts of all those who have contributed to Casa do Gaiato's mission.
The institution has benefited from the support of professionals, volunteers, and the community. In 2026, the Friends of Casa do Gaiato League was established to mobilize further support. The Municipal Council considers the 75 years a significant social milestone for the municipality.
