Caritas Madrid opens support center for vulnerable families at San Jenaro parish

Caritas Diocesana de Madrid opened a new socio-educational support center on September 15 at San Jenaro parish, in the Ciudad Lineal district of Madrid. The center, called the Espacio de Acompañamiento Socioeducativo (EASE), will offer comprehensive support to families in vulnerable situations. It forms part of Caritas Madrid's East Vicariate, one of the charity's regional divisions in the city, and is intended to bring the district's socio-educational services together in one place.

Renovation work adapted the premises to current requirements for socio-educational work, with accessible, functional space for children, families, volunteers and staff. The opening is part of the expansion of Caritas Madrid's network of centers, which aims to offer "bonds, opportunities, community and hope" to those most in need.

The opening ceremony was held under the motto "Alcemos juntos la mirada. Bienvenido a esta casa" ("Let us lift our eyes together. Welcome to this house"), which Caritas said reflects its wish that everyone who comes through the doors feel "recognized, supported and called to look to the future with hope." Begoña Samper, director of the East Vicariate, said there was a need to "look at those we accompany in terms of their dignity, their abilities and the face of Christ."

Those attending included the episcopal vicar for the East Vicariate, José Luis Díaz, the pastor of San Jenaro, Roberto Baker, and other parish representatives. The speakers agreed on the importance of supporting families and children through closeness, faith and mutual trust.

The prayer of blessing asked that those who come to the renovated center find "bonds, opportunities, community and hope." Caritas Madrid said the opening renews its commitment to providing "spaces of welcome and support, with simplicity, closeness and the responsible care of resources in the service of people."

The day ended with a gathering at which volunteers and professional staff shared experiences and went over the activities planned for the start of the school year, along with what the new center could mean for Ciudad Lineal.