Urgent appeal after storm damage to elder care centre in Tomar

A vital care centre in central Portugal is urgently seeking donations after sustaining extensive damage during Storm Kristen.

Storm Kristen hits Além da Ribeira Centre

The Parish Social Centre of Além da Ribeira, near the city of Tomar, was directly hit by the storm at around 4am on January 28. The resulting destruction has left the organisation facing repair costs of approximately €300,000, which has significantly affected the services the centre and its staff can provide.

Além da Ribeira has an ageing population, as younger generations increasingly move away from rural areas to cities or abroad. The centre provides both day centre and home care services to older residents, helping them maintain independence while staying connected to the community.

Supporting older residents in need

The centre operates as a Private Institution of Social Solidarity, delivering cooked meals, cleaning, laundry, and daily support for people aged 55 to 101. Storm damage affected major parts of the building and infrastructure, including the roof, solar panels, windows, ceilings, chimneys, doors, gates, and transport vehicles. The facility is currently unsuitable for hosting users.

Staff warn that the closure has left many elderly residents without essential social contact, increasing loneliness and, in some cases, reducing mobility and dignity.

Voices from the community

Father Tiago Alberto reflected on the centre’s importance since it was founded in 2005:

“We pride ourselves on delivering excellent care to enrich our users’ lives and ensure no one is forgotten. All donations will not go to waste as we work to restore the centre, transportation, and the services we provide out in the community.”

Jorge Graça, president of the parish council, described the wider effects of the storm:

“For days, our community was left without electricity or communications. The impact has been overwhelming, and recovery will take months. The centre provides care, meals, companionship, and dignity for those who relied on it.”

Staff members also emphasised their commitment, highlighting how daily care and meal deliveries remain essential for residents living alone.

How to help

To support the rebuilding effort, donations can be made through the centre’s GoFundMe page. Contributions of construction materials and professional services are also welcomed. Please contact Maria Silva by telephone +351 912 399 206 or email Padre Tiago at cspalemribeira@gmail.com for more details.

Community leaders say restoring the centre is essential to ensure continued care for vulnerable residents as recovery continues.

For more updates on community projects and the latest news from Portugal, visit our Portugal news section.