This project, driven by five women from the ‘Activa tu barrio’ program in Coronación, merges environmental commitment, active aging, and the participation of seniors in community life. It originated from an activity focused on reusing materials and addressing the environmental impact of the textile industry.
During the practical sessions, participants discovered ways to repurpose discarded materials, such as turning the waterproof fabric of umbrellas into reusable shopping bags. This led to the idea of recovering damaged umbrellas previously used in BIZAN centers. Notably, the orange umbrellas were instrumental in 2016 for promoting the pilot program ‘Activa tu barrio’.
“"The experience, creativity, and involvement of older adults can generate positive changes in the community."
Lucho Royero, Councilor for Social Policies, highlighted the initiative's social value. "This project truly embodies the active aging model we aim to foster in Vitoria-Gasteiz: seniors sharing their knowledge, proposing solutions, and contributing to their neighborhoods' improvement. They are not just recipients of services; they are protagonists who generate initiatives and transform the community," he stated.
The next step involves distributing the crafted bags and promoting the ‘Activa Tu Barrio’ program among local businesses and entities. A neighborhood route has been organized, with the program's participants, to recognize collaborations and strengthen BIZAN's community presence.
The distribution is scheduled for Monday, October 19th, with planned visits to locations including Egibide Molinuevo, La Peña Dulce, the Aldabe civic center, Délika fruit shop, and Omar butcher shop, accompanied by informational material about the initiative.
