Prachatice opens unique transitional housing for people with paraplegia

A unique residential facility named Kolečko has officially opened in Prachatice, Czech Republic, designed to assist individuals with paraplegia in transitioning back to independent living. Unlike permanent care homes, Kolečko serves as a transitional station where clients typically stay for approximately three months to practice daily life skills, including cooking, shopping, and navigating urban environments.

The modern, barrier-free facility features twelve residential units, common areas, a gym, and a bistro accessible to the public. The project was spearheaded by director Hana Vojtová and aims to prepare clients for returning to work, studies, or their own homes by addressing both physical and psychological barriers.

During the opening ceremony, Zbyněk Sýkora, Chairman of the Czech Paralympic Committee, shared his personal experiences with life after injury to highlight the necessity of such support. The facility was built on the site of a former maternity hospital, a location with deep personal significance for Vojtová.