La Laguna Breaks Ground on New Autism Residential Complex

La Laguna recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for Apanate's new residential complex, designed for adults with autism.

The symbolic event was attended by Fernando Clavijo, President of the Canary Islands Government; Rosa Dávila, President of the Cabildo, and Lope Afonso, its Vice President; Águeda Fumero, Councillor for Social Action; and María Leonor Cruz, Councillor for Social Welfare at La Laguna City Council. Also present were María del Carmen Díaz, President of Apanate, along with staff, users, and their families.

José Luis Barquín, the project's architect and a family member of a user, explained the initiative, saying, "Here, in this place, the miracle begins." Apanate's President, María del Carmen Díaz, echoed his words, calling it "a project that guarantees the future and peace of mind for families."

Elisa Hernández spoke on behalf of the organization's staff, and user David Campos thanked them for defending his rights and for the chance to live as an adult.

The new residential complex will cost 3,007,134.45 euros and is expected to take 24 months to build.

Most of the funding will come from European Next Generation funds, with additional support from the Cabildo de Tenerife if needed, according to a statement from the corporation.

The complex will include four homes, designed for 20 users. This new and innovative shared living model aims to help users live full lives.

The Cabildo, through its Social and Sociosanitary Institute (IASS), will oversee the construction. Once finished, it will be handed over to Apanate to manage.

During the ceremony, Fernando Clavijo, President of the Canary Islands Government, said the complex addresses a long-standing "demand" from Apanate, its users, and their families.

He added, "The Canarian Government understands this reality and does not forget people with autism, especially as adults, when they face greater challenges in joining society and the workforce. That's why, during this term, we've prioritized creating the General Directorate for Disability." He also noted that "projects like this clearly show the importance of public-private partnerships between government bodies and the third sector to collectively support individuals and situations that the administration often cannot reach alone."

Rosa Dávila, President of the Cabildo de Tenerife, stressed that "this groundbreaking ceremony for the Residential Complex for People with Autism is more than just starting construction; it's a clear political commitment to a fairer, more inclusive society that puts people first." She also emphasized that "care is not a privilege, but a right."

She highlighted the Cabildo's role, through the IASS and in partnership with the Canary Islands Government, in updating and building social and health facilities. These facilities are designed for a new long-term care model that focuses on each person's dignity, independence, and well-being.

Dávila also praised the work of the third sector, particularly "Apanate's journey, which shows how collaboration between institutions and civil society leads to stronger, fairer progress." She acknowledged "the ongoing efforts of families and those who have spoken out for years to demand proper resources."

The President reiterated that "this project offers a future and peace of mind for many families." She affirmed the Cabildo's commitment "to continue building an island where people with needs and their families can pursue their life goals with appropriate support, respect, and security."

Águeda Fumero, Councillor for Social Action, noted that "this project includes some of the most innovative ideas for caring for people with ASD. It organizes the space into small shared living units, allowing for highly personalized care tailored to each individual, and helping with their true integration into the community."

Fumero reminded everyone that "this commitment isn't new; it's a project that has faced many challenges over time. It was saved by the dedication of technicians and families, finally becoming this vital resource."

She added, "With this project, Apanate grows, and so does social care in Tenerife, moving towards a model based on local access, specialization, and human-centered services."

Councillor Fumero concluded by stating that while a cornerstone was laid this Friday, "what is truly being done" is building "the future of a more just, more inclusive, and more committed society that cares for and upholds the rights of all people."