Esposende Solidário is an association for integrated development serving the entire municipality of Esposende. Guided by the principle that caring comes first, it works to address the needs of socially vulnerable people and groups while strengthening community skills, knowledge and resources. Its goal is to help prevent or reduce social and economic vulnerability and exclusion through a range of support services for people of different ages and facing varied challenges.

The association’s work includes social assistance and follow-up, as well as residential and ongoing support for individuals and families affected by alcohol-related problems. Its services for children, young people and older adults include a nursery, youth workshops, a day centre, leisure-time activities, home support and a community meeting centre. The Vila Chã Community Centre brings together social and community services with municipality-wide reach. Youth workshops in Belinho and Vila Chã offer non-formal education for young people aged 10 to 16. Established in 2005, the Esposende Social Inclusion Community supports people experiencing poverty and exclusion, including those with alcohol-related problems.