The award, in the subcategory “Combating Social Exclusion”, was presented at a ceremony at the Belém Cultural Center in Lisbon. The councilor of the Barcelos Municipal Chamber, José Paulo Matias, responsible for the Social Action department, was present and highlighted the work developed by the Municipality and partner entities in supporting people in situations of greater social vulnerability.
José Paulo Matias emphasized the importance of the recognition, which coincides with the World Day for People Experiencing Homelessness, observed on October 10th. The councilor reaffirmed the need to continue investing in proximity-based solutions and coordinated interventions between institutions to promote social inclusion, autonomy, and human dignity.
Between August 2023 and December 2025, the BarcElos d’Abrigo Team supported 249 people, contributing to changing the homeless status of 149 individuals and the integration of 43 people in chronic situations. Over 2000 free provisions of goods and services were secured through a broad network of partners.
The team provides continuous, humanized, and individualized support, seeking solutions in housing, health, social protection, and professional integration, with the aim of promoting autonomy and rebuilding life projects.
On this World Day for People Experiencing Homelessness, the Municipality of Barcelos reaffirms its commitment to developing social responses that place people at the center of intervention, ensuring that no one remains on the streets due to a lack of solutions.
