Launched in the aftermath of the DANA climate event, which severely impacted the Valencia region in Spain, the PONTS programme, implemented by SOS Children’s Villages in Spain, has been funded by the EIB Institute, the philanthropic and social arm of the European Investment Bank, in collaboration with SOS Villages d’Enfants Monde. It aims to support the most vulnerable families affected by the flooding on their path to recovery.
In a context marked by significant material losses, displacement and lasting psychosocial impacts, particularly for children, the intervention has focused on the La Torre neighbourhood in the municipality of Valencia, one of the areas most severely affected. The programme is based on an approach combining a fixed service point and a mobile unit, enabling outreach to both families remaining in the area and those relocated elsewhere.
A comprehensive, family-centred approach
The programme is structured around three main pillars:
- Psychosocial support, including individualised assistance to families coping with grief and trauma;
- workshops for children (emotional management, social skills) and their parents (positive parenting);
- Meeting basic needs, through the provision of food, clothing and school supplies;
Access to rights, through administrative support and digital inclusion, particularly to facilitate access to employment for those out of work.
Since summer 2025, PONTS has evolved into a family strengthening programme based on tailored intervention plans. Each family now benefits from regular follow-up aimed at fostering long-term autonomy.
Tangible progress for families
In 2025, the programme provided support to 36 families, including 52 children and adolescents, with a gradual scaling-up that demonstrates its relevance. Activities have addressed immediate needs while expanding into a comprehensive socio-educational offer, including parenting workshops, budget management support, family activities and initiatives to strengthen social connections.
Overall, hundreds of individuals have received direct assistance, notably through the distribution of more than 1,000 food vouchers, educational and school kits, and community-based activities promoting mutual support and resilience.
A sustainable response rooted in the community
In coordination with local stakeholders (social services, schools and community organisations), the project ensures a complementary and effective response to the needs of the targeted families. Today, the programme is recognised as a key local support mechanism for families in the neighbourhood.
In 2026, SOS Children’s Villages in Spain will continue its efforts to consolidate this support over the long term, to help families achieve greater stability, autonomy and well-being.
*This project is implemented thanks to funding provided by the European Investment Bank (EIB), channelled through SOS Villages d’Enfants Monde – Luxembourg..
© Photos: SOS Children’s Villages in Spain