The Red Cross allocates €300,000 to support the elderly and the disabled

The Croatian Red Cross has launched a new initiative titled "Active and Included: A Support Network of the Croatian Red Cross," which aims to provide social services to elderly individuals over the age of 65 and adults with disabilities. The project, valued at nearly 300,000 euros, will run for two years, starting on March 31 of this year and ending on July 31, 2028. Its primary goal is to enhance the quality of life, social inclusion, and independence of these groups by developing accessible community-based social services and preventing their premature institutionalization.

The initiative is co-financed by European Union funds from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), under the call "Expanding the Network of Community Social Services" within the Effective Human Potential Programme for the period 2021–2027. In addition to the Croatian Red Cross, local chapters of the Red Cross in Bjelovar, Donja Stubica, Pregrada, Zabok, and Zlatar have joined as partners in implementing the project.

Residents aged 65 and older, as well as adults with disabilities living in the areas covered by these local chapters, are invited to express interest in participating in the program and engaging in its activities. The project offers a range of support services designed to meet daily needs, including transportation assistance to medical appointments, pharmacies, public institutions, and social events. It also includes help in accessing rights related to social care and healthcare systems, along with information about these rights and referrals to relevant authorities.

In addition to practical support, the initiative plans to organize a variety of recreational, educational, creative, and horticultural activities aimed at maintaining physical and mental health. These include group sessions focused on self-help and mutual support, allowing participants to share experiences, receive psychosocial support, and strengthen social connections.

Individuals who wish to apply must submit a scanned copy of their valid personal identification document. Adults with disabilities are also required to provide documentation proving their disability status when applicable. The application process is open to anyone residing or staying in the Republic of Croatia who meets the eligibility criteria.

The project underscores a broader effort to address the challenges faced by aging populations and individuals with disabilities, particularly in rural and less urbanized regions where access to essential services can be limited. By focusing on community-based solutions rather than institutional care, the initiative aligns with current trends in social policy that emphasize inclusivity and autonomy.

Local chapters of the Red Cross have been actively involved in organizing outreach efforts to ensure awareness among potential beneficiaries. They have begun distributing informational materials and conducting meetings to explain the scope of the project and how individuals can participate. This approach aims to reach even those who might not typically engage with formal service providers due to mobility issues, lack of information, or other barriers.

As the project moves forward, organizers plan to monitor its impact through regular assessments and feedback mechanisms. This will allow them to adapt strategies based on participant needs and outcomes. Additionally, they aim to collaborate with local government bodies and non-profit organizations to expand the network of support beyond the initial five communities, potentially extending the benefits of the program to more residents in need.

Looking ahead, the success of this initiative could influence future funding decisions and policy directions regarding social services for vulnerable groups. If effective, similar projects may be replicated in other parts of Croatia, contributing to a more comprehensive national strategy for supporting the elderly and disabled population.