Portugal

In partnership with EPIS and SOS Children Villages

In Portugal, the vulnerability of families with young children remains a structural concern, reflecting persistent economic and social inequalities. The most recent data shows that, despite some progress, many of these families face conditions that jeopardize their well-being and the development of their children.

 

It is in this context that initiatives such as The Human Safety Net become essential to reduce inequalities and create conditions for a fairer start in life for all children. Believing that child development and parenting skills are pillars for breaking cycles of poverty and exclusion, THSN supports initiatives that promote more positive family environments and stronger educational trajectories.

The Human Safety Net Portugal collaborates with organizations working on the ground with at-risk families and children, funding and promoting transformative programs:

EPIS – Success 2040 Preschool Program/ Promoting development from Kindergarten In the municipality of Oeiras, THSN supports the Success 2040 Preschool project, promoted by the EPIS Association (Entrepreneurs for Social Inclusion). This program works with preschool children, aiming to combat school failure from the earliest stages.

The intervention focuses on neuro-cognitive development, essential in early childhood, working on skills such as attention, memory, language and self-regulation, key factors for success throughout schooling, thus contributing to reducing educational inequalities, strengthening family ties and creating a solid foundation for the school journey of children in vulnerable contexts. In parallel, the project involves families, offering tools and support so that they can support their children's learning more effectively and regularly.

SOS Children's Villages – Incredible Years Program/ Strengthening parenting skills and preventing child neglect.

THSN Portugal supports the Incredible Years Program, run by SOS Children's Villages. This program is internationally recognized for its effectiveness in strengthening parenting skills and promoting safer and more loving family environments.

The central objective is to prevent situations of neglect and risk, acting before problems worsen. Through structured sessions, parent groups and personalized support, the program helps mothers, fathers and caregivers develop positive strategies to deal with daily challenges, manage emotions and strengthen bonds with children.

The focus is on creating stable, protective and emotionally nurturing environments, fundamental for the healthy development of children and for preventing situations of danger or family separation.