Hello friends! We already explained in our posts introducing the Mercado del Encanto that we usually collaborate with NGOs, giving them visibility at our events and helping proactively with food collection campaigns during our pop-ups. At the next event in April, as you know, at the Palacio de Santa Bárbara, we will have Aldeas Infantiles (www.aldeasinfantiles.es) with us.
Aldeas Infantiles was founded in Austria in 1949, at the end of World War II, which left so many children orphaned. In fact, its founder was a medical student who was orphaned for this reason and who decided to take the initiative to help in this extreme situation.
“Doing good and multiplying it is not a question of methodology, but of compassion and responsible love that we feel for our fellow human beings” Hermann Gmeiner, Founder of Aldeas.
Aldeas arrived in Spain in 1967, with a model of direct care for children that was completely different from the large institutions of that time, where children grew up deprived of parental care. The first Aldea was founded in Barcelona and, 3 years later, in Pontevedra. Today, they are present in nine autonomous communities: Andalusia, Aragon, Asturias, Castilla-La Mancha, the Canary Islands, Catalonia, Galicia, the Community of Madrid and the Community of Valencia.
Of course, in 2008 the economic crisis particularly affected the most disadvantaged sectors of society, including children. It was then that Aldeas intensified its work and doubled the number of children served by its programs.
“We contribute to the achievement of five fundamental objectives: the end of poverty, the reduction of inequalities, peace and justice, quality education and decent work.”
Another difference is the prevention program: the commitment to children is extended to their families and work begins with them to prevent possible separation between parents and children.
For all these reasons, we are delighted that you are joining us! At the event on April 13, 14 and 15 of the Mercado del Encanto, there will be several volunteers from Aldeas, explaining their role and also raising funds to continue the great work of this non-profit company. Come and see us!!