The Local Government Board of the Vitoria-Gasteiz City Council has approved the renewal of the collaboration agreement with the Red Cross Álava for the intervention program in municipal sheltered apartments and community housing. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the well-being and social participation of seniors in municipal resources, will receive a contribution of 6,450 euros, adding to the 81,375 euros previously approved for another agreement with the same entity for the support of seniors without a support network across the city.
Both agreements ensure the continuity of a program that provides personalized support to individuals with fragile social networks or who require punctual or continuous assistance due to aging or dependency situations. These interventions aim to improve quality of life, facilitating everything from attending medical appointments to going for walks or engaging in cognitive stimulation activities, thereby promoting autonomy and the feeling of being an active part of the community.
The councilor for Social Policies, Lucho Royero, emphasized the importance that "no senior person has to face alone those daily situations where they need additional support." He highlighted that the Red Cross's accompaniment "complements municipal care with something as important as closeness, listening, and companionship."
The program is implemented through the Red Cross Álava's volunteer network and focuses on two main areas: physical support in accompaniments and emotional support, based on a close and respectful understanding of each person's tastes, needs, and way of being.
The fundamental objective is to strengthen interpersonal relationships, prevent isolation, and foster the integration and participation of seniors in their environment. Furthermore, it seeks to promote intergenerational and intercultural interaction, the maintenance of personal autonomy, and the use of community resources.
Royero stated that "unwanted loneliness and the loss of social relationships are realities that we must also address through public policies, and do so from a community perspective." He added, "In this program, we combine municipal resources and professionals with the strength of Red Cross volunteers, creating a support network that puts the person at the center."
Activity data reflects the program's reach: during 2025, 15 seniors residing in municipal apartments and housing received weekly support, totaling nearly 800 hours. Additionally, 115 punctual accompaniments were provided to 32 individuals. The Red Cross ensures that volunteers receive basic training and first aid oriented towards seniors.
