Calabria Region announces social welfare funding for autism inclusion and elderly care

The Calabria Region has launched several social welfare initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable populations. Through the “AUT&NOUS” project, the Territorial Social Area of Caulonia has allocated 100,000 euros to promote the inclusion of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder across 19 municipalities. Funded by the Calabria Region, the program provides personalized educational paths, specialized training for operators, and “IncludiLAB” workshops involving multisensory and motor activities. The initiative aims to foster autonomy and social relationships through collaboration between schools, families, and health services.

Additionally, the regional welfare and inclusion assessor, Pasqualina Straface, presented the “Allegra-Mente” program, which involves an investment of nearly 3 million euros. This initiative funds 30 projects designed to promote active aging and combat social isolation among the elderly. Part of the 2024–2026 operational program on active aging, the measure focuses on training, socialization, and inclusion to transform aging into an opportunity for community participation and to prevent non-self-sufficiency.