Greek disability federation backs MITOS to keep Patras autism centre open

The National Federation of Persons with Disabilities (E.S.A. meA.) voiced strong disappointment that the selection process for the operator of the Day‑Care Centre for Autism (ΚΗΟΦ) in Patras did not choose the MITOS Association, despite MITOS submitting a comprehensive, well‑documented proposal backed by leading scientists and regional institutions. The federation called on the Greek Ministry of Health, the Region of Western Greece, the Patras municipality and local MPs to secure immediate funding and ensure the centre’s sustainable operation, warning that without a sponsor the facility – created after years of effort to fill a critical service gap in Western Greece – may remain idle.

The federation stressed that the centre’s inactivity would primarily affect autistic individuals and their families, who continue to lack essential specialised support. It urged state authorities to act swiftly to protect the significant investment and to recognise the long‑standing contributions of parent‑led organisations in addressing unmet needs for persons with disabilities.