CRIFZ

CRIFZ, the Centro de Reabilitação e Integração de Ferreira do Zêzere, is a Portuguese association dedicated to supporting people with disabilities and responding to social needs in its community. Founded in 1978, it began operating in 1980 to promote the support, prevention and rehabilitation of children and young people with intellectual disabilities, helping them develop within their families and the wider community. Its mission has since expanded to serve people at different stages of life and address emerging needs across the region.

CRIFZ offers a broad range of social, educational and rehabilitation services. These include an occupational activities centre, a residential unit, early intervention, family support and parental counselling, family crèche services, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and inclusion resources for schools. The association also provides school meals, family support activities and logistical assistance, including meals for firefighters during forest-fire operations. Working with local authorities, schools and community organisations, CRIFZ aims to deliver coordinated support and improve quality of life for the people it serves.