camera of Faro supports Cáritas Diocesana and Association for Family Planning

Both endorsements were unanimously approved.

Photo: Fabiana Saboya | Sul Informação

The Chamber of Faro approved support of 2 euros to the Association for Family Planning (APF) – Algarve Regional Delegation and 5 to Cáritas Diocesana. 

Both endorsements were unanimously approved.

The agreement with the APF is a follow-up to the “Behind and Beyond Margens Project – Risk Ø”, which has already been running since September 2022 and which “is the result of a joint effort developed over the last seven years, as well as the approval of an application by the Directorate-General for Health, within the scope of the National Program for Infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV – AIDS) and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), of the (Integrated System of Financial Support Programs in Health)”.

This initiative aims to create the necessary conditions for the development of sexual and reproductive health activities and counseling and early detection of HIV infection and other STIs, with specific and vulnerable populations (Men who have sex with men, female workers of Sex and its Clients, Homeless Population, People who use drugs and Migrant Populations).

Thus, we seek to promote among these target audiences an increase in knowledge about Rights in Sexual and Reproductive Health; the practice of healthy sexual behavior, contributing to the reduction of transmission rates of HIV infection and other STIs and to the prevention of unwanted pregnancies; its accessibility to the National Health Service, prevention material and effective methods of contraception.

Within its scope, awareness-raising and information activities take place, as well as assistance/counseling and referral to specialized services. Regular and emergency contraception and pregnancy tests are also distributed, rapid tests are carried out for various STIs, condoms and lubricants are distributed, as well as information material.

These actions resort to various means to be carried out, namely the Mobile Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit and visits to apartments where Sex Workers are located.

Regarding Cáritas, the support is justified, according to Rogério Bacalhau, president of the Chamber of Faro, due to the fact that this institution «helps the most unprotected sectors of the population, namely individuals and families in a situation of serious economic need, as well as foreigners, migrants and refugees», who, says the mayor, «are appearing in increasing numbers with of the institution, requesting some kind of follow-up, due to the socio-economic crisis that we are going through and that everyone is aware of».

In fact, the number of requests for help has been more numerous, therefore, there is a need to guarantee that Caritas will have a way to keep in operation the measures and valences that contribute to the social inclusion and protection of needy individuals and families, such as service (which allows for responses at the most diverse levels), social dining room, social wardrobe and assistance for pregnant mothers.

 



Comments

Ads