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The CHEGA candidate for Viana do Castelo City Hall, Eduardo Teixeira, visited on Friday, October 10, the “O Berço” Association, a leading institution dedicated to sheltering children at risk, located in Viana do Castelo.


On Friday, October 10, the CHEGA candidate for the Viana do Castelo City Hall, Eduardo Teixeira, visited the “O Berço” Association, a renowned institution dedicated to sheltering children at risk, based in Viana do Castelo.

“The visit took place as part of the candidate’s electoral agenda, reinforcing Eduardo Teixeira’s commitment to staying close to the county’s social and charitable institutions, which he considers ‘an absolute priority,’ given the essential role they play in protecting the most vulnerable and promoting human dignity,” the deputy said in a statement.

The “O Berço” Association is a highly relevant private social solidarity institution (IPSS) that shelters babies and children who are victims of physical and emotional abuse, neglect, extreme poverty, and family abandonment.

The institution’s mission is “to promote, defend, and dignify human life,” providing children with a safe environment where they can recover from trauma, regain hope, and rediscover their right to be children.
During the visit, the institution’s management shared with Eduardo Teixeira the daily challenges they face, particularly the urgent need for an electric vehicle, essential to ensure safe and regular transportation for child support and community outreach services.

“The institution had already secured partial funding for the vehicle’s acquisition, but still lacked €12,000, which, given the IPSS’s financial limitations, could not be covered in the short term,” the statement explained.

“Moved by the situation, Eduardo Teixeira immediately sought a solution through the solidarity initiative of the Portuguese representative involved in the campaign activities of Summit Nutritionals International, a company chaired by businessman and philanthropist César DePaço. Recognizing the importance and urgency of the project, César DePaço promptly agreed to donate the missing €12,000, thus completing the full amount needed to purchase the electric vehicle,” it added.
 

“It was a deeply emotional moment. O Berço carries out a noble mission that touches all our hearts. I was truly happy that, in just a few minutes, we were able to solve such a concrete and urgent need. This is yet another example of what social responsibility and solidarity truly mean. O Berço is an institution that deserves all our respect, support, and admiration”
said Eduardo Teixeira, visibly moved.


The candidate also took the opportunity to deliver a firm criticism of the City Hall’s lack of support for social institutions, stressing that “it shouldn’t take benefactors from outside to solve problems that the municipality itself should be addressing. We managed to build this bridge to secure funding that makes a real difference in this institution’s life, but it should never have to depend solely on the goodwill of those far away.”

“For causes like these, there’s never any money. But there’s always a budget for new equipment and ribbon-cutting ceremonies just for show. That’s what must change in Viana. The priorities must be people,” he added.
Eduardo Teixeira further emphasized that “the work of IPSS institutions must be valued and supported through municipal policies that are more engaged, humane, and efficient.” He guaranteed that, if elected, the Viana do Castelo City Hall will play an active, cooperative role with these institutions, ensuring structural support and effective responses.

The visit concluded with words of recognition and gratitude to the institution’s technical and management team for their dedication, care, and sensitivity in welcoming and protecting children living in such fragile conditions.
“This was one of the most meaningful moments of our campaign. Because loving Viana also means caring for those most in need. And this act of solidarity proves that when there is will and unity, it’s possible to transform lives,” concluded Eduardo Teixeira.

The statement ended by reaffirming CHEGA’s commitment “to defending and supporting institutions that truly care for people, promoting a policy of proximity, truth, and genuine solidarity—one that values social work and upholds the dignity of those who need support the most.” 


Source: Rádio Geice