MARE team donates essential goods, school materials and gifts to Associação Aconchego

The MARE team associated with the Regional Unit of the Polytechnic of Leiria joined forces to carry out an action of solidarity, donating essential goods, school materials and gifts to the Aconchego Association, a temporary shelter for babies and children, which is part of the Padre Bastos Social Centre in Peniche. 

According to Maria Jorge Campos, researcher and coordinator of MARE - IPLeiria, ‘by organising this action we wanted, above all, to provide some comfort and joy to the children who are at the Associação Aconchego this Christmas’. To make this possible, the association provided a list of the children's wishes and the essential items they needed most. At the team's Christmas lunch, the requested gifts and materials were delivered.

Maria Jorge Campos also explained that ‘the essential goods donated included shampoo, hair conditioner, shower gel, wipes, nappies, toothbrushes and toothpaste, as well as some school materials and hygiene products, such as notebooks, files, ballpoint pens, pencils and pens. From the children's wish list, it was possible to collect and deliver shoes and clothes, toys for different ages, footballs, books, plasticine, chocolates and more.’

Opened in January 2001, Associação Aconchego follows a similar model to the family home, providing a safe and cosy environment for the children. During their time at the institution, they receive the support of a technical and support team, who work to promote their integral development, taking into account their specific needs. The association also accompanies the realisation of the children's life project, which may include family reunification, foster care, adoption or autonomy.