This initiative seeks to mitigate the effects of economic vulnerability through a direct purchase system in supermarkets that avoids stigmatization. Access to the program requires a prior assessment by the municipal Social Services, who will also offer a comprehensive support plan.
Sustained inflation and the constant rise in the cost of groceries have made acquiring essential products a significant financial challenge for many households. In response to this complex socio-labor scenario, the Colmenar Viejo City Council has implemented the Basic Material Assistance Program, promoted by the Community of Madrid, to offer a new model of social aid.
The pre-paid cards are a prepaid format that allows families to shop anonymously at participating supermarkets and retail stores, making their purchases just like any other customer. This model not only guarantees food security but also protects the dignity of beneficiaries.
The program focuses on the protection of children and adolescents, making it an indispensable condition that applicant families have dependent minors. The municipal Social Services conduct an exhaustive assessment of the financial situation of each household registered in the municipality.
The cards allow the purchase of fresh food, personal hygiene items, menstrual hygiene products, and diapers. The first step to access the program is to request an appointment with the assigned social worker at the city council's Social Services.
Following a favorable report from municipal technicians, the Community of Madrid manages and delivers the cards. The Councilor for Social Policy, Jesús Fernández Fuillerat, emphasized that the program includes 'social support adapted to each situation' to promote financial autonomy and re-employment.
The funding for the project is entirely provided by the Community of Madrid, while the implementation is carried out by the Colmenar Viejo City Council through its Social Policy Department. Residents who meet the requirements have access to the municipality's social care centers for personalized and confidential advice.
