Urban redevelopment initiatives are key to revitalizing neighborhoods and city areas, even and especially the most peripheral and degraded ones. This process not only returns public spaces to citizens, improving their quality of life, but also promotes social cohesion and security. In addition, redevelopment creates new economic and cultural opportunities, attracting investment and providing new services and infrastructures. An inclusive and sustainable environment is promoted, enhancing local heritage and stimulating active community participation. The FOQUS association, FOndazione QUartieri Spagnoli ETS, has as its main objective precisely the urban regeneration of Naples' Quartieri Spagnoli, one of the most problematic areas in terms of population density, unemployment, school dropout, and crime. In addition to dealing with the redevelopment of places, FOQUS has established collaborations with various companies and associations in the field of education and social assistance, to improve the social environment in the round. The project we support with FOQUS, The Casa Comune, aims to renovate and furnish 2 co-housing locations, one within the FOQUS headquarters and the other enhancing a property confiscated from the camorra. The houses will host paths for accompanying young people with intellectual disabilities to independence by leaving the family unit and vocational training paths for the production and packaging of chocolate bars imprinted with a map of the neighborhoods of Naples, to be marketed as souvenirs. It will also focus on training people with disabilities to turn part of the Casa Comune into a b&b for the summer season. The Casa Comune is not just a physical place, but an opportunity to weave new social ties and create spaces that reflect the soul of the community. Through this project, new avenues for employment inclusion are opened and places are offered where everyone can feel welcome and an active part of a community. Details Location: Naples Association: Quartieri Spagnoli ETS Foundation Beneficiaries: 150 people with intellectual disabilities Contribution: 63,700 euros Duration: August 2024 - December 2024
