There is a word we often hear but rarely experience in its tangible form: chance. The Mécses Serving Community Association took on precisely this challenge in their project, funded by the EU under the Human Resources Development Operational Programme, offering a genuine chance for a new beginning.
The development was created to transform the life opportunities of people with disabilities and psychiatric patients; to establish high-quality, accessible, community-based housing options that provide a real alternative to traditional residential institutions.
During the investment, new supported housing places were created and existing ones modernized, taking into account the users’ age, health status, and self-care abilities. The goal was to ensure that institutional placement would no longer be the only option, but that an independent yet supported lifestyle could become a choice – in an environment where people live not in isolation, but as a community. In Békéscsaba and Mezőberény, a total of 6 houses were established to accommodate 40 people.
The project also included the creation of a so-called service ring, which supports everyday life by expanding basic services, whether related to healthcare, cultural, or recreational opportunities. A new service center was opened in Békéscsaba, and the Mezőberény service center was expanded, allowing an increase in the number of participants in day care. Additionally, the support service operates an electric minibus providing transportation services at both locations, and home assistance is also available.
Beyond the physical infrastructure, the development represents a new approach: supporting independent living in a supportive, human-scale environment, as well as promoting social inclusion by upholding the rights and dignity of those affected. Because everyone deserves not just a place to live, but a home – a place where they have a chance to be themselves.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the project EFOP-2.2.25-22-2022-00034 under the Human Resource Development Operational Programme.
Find out more about the project in the Project Finder:Details
