The Parish Social Centre of Além da Ribeira (CSPAR - Tomar) was directly in the path of Storm Kristen at 4 am on 28 January 2026. It was not the start of the New Year that the 10-strong staff and up to 70 service members, and the local Priest, Padre Tiago Alberto, had wished for. Leaving them with approximately €300,000 worth of repairs.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Social Centre of Além da Ribeira ;

For most, Storm Kristen is firmly in the past, but for others in Central Portugal, the rebuilding has just begun.

The parish-based IPSS (Private Institution of Social Solidarity) provides Day Centre and Home Support services for the local ageing and disabled population, over the age of 55 up to 101, within the rural region, not just providing day-centre support, but also homecare services, making sure the elderly receive daily meals and cleaning and laundry services, not only improving their quality of life, but also sustaining their ability to stay independent within their family home.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Social Centre of Além da Ribeira;

The damage to the day centre’s facilities includes, but is not limited to, the replacement of the roof and repairs to infrastructure, including solar panels, windows, ceiling, chimneys, doors, gates, and transport vehicles.

Unfortunately, since the storm, the facility has been unsuitable for use, and the local elderly are solely reliant on home services and have become susceptible to loneliness due to their lack of ability to socialise. For some, this will also include reduced mobility and dignity. The longer the day centre is out of commission, the greater the negative impact it will have on the elderly.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Social Centre of Além da Ribeira;

Due to the severity of the damage in both the local area and Tomar, the Parish of Além da Ribeira urgently calls on Portuguese citizens, residents, and companies, from within and beyond the regions of Santarem, Leiria, and Coimbra, to provide support now.

Your help is truly needed now. Every donation brings us closer to reopening. If donations surpass our goal, the extra funds will be spent on improving the facilities and services.

The staff at CSPAR - Jardim da Ternura - would like to thank you for your kindness and donations to their cause.

How to help:

To immediately donate, visit the CSPAR - Jardim da Ternura’s GoFundMe Page https://gofund.me/a1cc1b9bd OR make a direct transfer using the IBAN number: PT5000 4554 3540 2278 7165 80 (Centro SP ALÉM RIBEIRA).

You can also show your support in other ways, by donating your services or supplies. Please contact Maria Silva by telephone at +351 912399206 or by email at cspalemribeira@gmail.com for more details.