PROJECT: “The Promotion of Social Cohesion and Inclusion”

Supported by: The Secretariat of State for the Portuguese Communities - DGACCP

In light of the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion, the Consulate General of Portugal in Toronto along with ‘Centro Abrigo,’ Saint Christopher House, Working Women, the Portuguese Mental and Addiction Services, the Luso Canadian Charitable Society, as well as the elected representatives from the Council of Portuguese Communities in Toronto, would like to set up two panel discussions regarding this project.  

The main focus of the project is to provide the Portuguese Community residing in Ontario ample knowledge regarding the various services that are available to them in hopes of bettering their quality of life and civil society in general.  This project will target Portuguese youth in particular, seniors, as well as individuals with disabilities and various other needs. In addition, the following ought to be taken into consideration:

• Every individual has the right to live in dignity and play an active role in society;
• Both the public and private sectors are equally responsible in the combat against poverty and social exclusion; 
• In order to eradicate poverty and build a more cohesive society, it is necessary that all levels of society get involved;
• Recognize that ‘socially excluded individuals’ have the right to and should play an active role in society;
• Highlight the fact that everyone is responsible in the fight against poverty;
• Promote social cohesion as well as efficient social inclusion practices; and
• Make sure that project participants commit to adopting more efficient practices.  

The European Commission designated 2010 as the European Year to Combat Poverty and Social Exclusion.  On the European Commission's website, one can find, among other documents, the Decision of the EU Parliament and Council [COM(2007) 797 de 12.12.97] with regards to this EU Year.  

For more information visit: 

http://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?langId=en&catId=637


click here to view all the above information in Portuguese