The Regional Secretary for Social Solidarity announced today that Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS) and "Santas Casa da Misericórdia" will be allocated an estimated sum of 53 million Euros under the new funding model, represents an increase of 1.6 million Euros compared to 2013.

Speaking at the end of a visit to Raríssimas Association on the island of Pico, Piedade Lalanda underlined that the funds allocated to 75 percent of IPSS will be maintained or reinforced under the new funding model, which aims to "better serve" the beneficiaries covered by these institutions.

In this regard, the government official reiterated that this model promotes "justice and equity," a fact that has been recognised by most institutions as they recognise that this model promotes a "better redistribution of financial resources available as well as the increased effectiveness and efficiency of institutions themselves."

Piedade Lalanda also announced that the Regional Government will renew the protocol with Raríssimas Association for the implementation of a project that will require the services of an occupational therapist in this institution; the latter covers disabled people living in the three municipalities of Pico Island.
 
In statements made after the meeting, the Regional Secretary also pointed out the importance of Raríssimas Association in fostering partnerships with other local entities to create a project that will promote the employability of vulnerable groups, such as is the case of disabled people.