Fami P.A.C.A. Porject “Adama's House”

In 2020, the Ministry of the Interior approved the project “P.A.C.A. – Autonomous People, Welcoming Communities” under the “FAMI 2014-2020 program, strengthening the first and second reception system – development of individual pathways for socio-economic autonomy.” The project was submitted in partnership with other local organizations, including Oxfam Intercultura, with the aim of promoting integration and social cohesion initiatives. The core of the project focused on empowerment pathways designed to promote housing and employment autonomy, as well as foster integration and social engagement activities.

These initiatives were carried out in synergy with local communities, actively involving the territories of Arezzo, Casentino, and much of the Arezzo province, in order to support the social and cultural inclusion of individuals within their local contexts.

The project was aimed at holders of international protection, both individuals and families. Participants were required to have exited the reception circuits—such as Extraordinary Reception Centers (CAS), the Reception and Integration System (SAI, formerly SPRAR), Humanitarian Corridors, and Government First Reception Centers—no more than 18 months prior. Importantly, participation in the project’s activities was always completely free of charge.

The project offered a range of services to support housing autonomy, including guidance and support in the search for housing or alternative living solutions, such as housing/cohousing paths and family hosting. It also provided tools for managing household finances and assistance in accessing housing subsidies.

Regarding employment, the project offered support in active job searching, orientation activities, and specific workshops, such as Italian for work, digital skills for employment, and skills assessment. Training opportunities and business consulting were also available for those interested in starting their own ventures.

Lastly, to encourage social inclusion within the community, the project included intercultural workshops, local area exploration activities, neighborhood events, school inclusion initiatives, and recreational activities. In this way, the project aimed to foster the active and positive integration of participants into society.

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