Bissaya Barreto Foundation

Mission The Bissaya Barreto Foundation is a private social solidarity institution of public interest, based in Bencanta, Coimbra. Since its creation in 1958, the objective of continuing Social Work created and bequeathed by the patron, Fernando Bissaya Barreto, an illustrious physician and university professor who, in the central region of the country, has built and directed a wide network of welfare organizations, educational, formative and cultural, in an example of unique vision and social entrepreneurship. Under the terms of the statutes in force, the Foundation aims to contribute to the promotion of the population of the central region, through the purpose of giving organized expression to the duty of solidarity and social justice among individuals, but may extend to other locations in the country, by resolution of the Board of Directors. (art. 2) and proposes to support, promote and carry out activities in the Social, Education, Health, Culture, Vocational Training and other fields that may become possible and necessary as long as they respect the work and the spirit of the founder . (Article 3) Vision To give continuity to the Work and thought of Bissaya Barreto, undertaking innovative social projects conducive to the search for happiness and human dignity as the last ambition; pioneering the right to protection and defense of the Child; to the concept of lifelong education and training; protection and defense of Women, Mother and Family; social inclusion, equal opportunities; to the cult of knowledge, beauty and creativity. Accompany and respond to social emergencies of each new time by putting its capital of experience, strategies and resources at the service of sustainable development and social cohesion. Think global, act local. To create, nurture and develop cooperation partnerships with the State, with public and private entities and civil society, in a healthy affirmation of participatory democracy and the exercise of citizenship. Strengthen the transmission of the memory and thinking of Bissaya Barreto, spreading his spirit and his Work, in the national, European and international community. Values Philanthropy, Humanism, Ethics and Citizenship, Knowledge and Innovation, Social Cohesion, Sustainability, Flexibility, Dedication and Social Responsibility.