The Mayor of Ontinyent, Jorge Rodríguez, participated in the key handover to Alba and Pilar, the first users to begin this new phase, alongside municipal representatives and those from the association.
Jorge Rodríguez highlighted that this initiative represents "a new step in the municipal public housing plan," which includes creating residential resources for individuals facing difficulties accessing a home and maintaining the intergenerational character of Casa del Delme. The mayor recalled that the twelve homes being built in La Vila will be added to the seven at Delme, resulting in nearly twenty public housing units promoted during the legislature.
The project aims to address the need to provide a residential solution for individuals with specific challenges in accessing housing, while preserving the intergenerational coexistence vocation of Casa del Delme. Rodríguez emphasized that people with mental health problems face additional barriers to housing access.
“"We are going to contribute to solving a problem that, while general for the population, is even more acute for individuals with mental illness."
The president of ADIEM, Vicent Sanchis, recalled that one of the association's long-standing goals was to secure residential resources for its users. He particularly highlighted the role of Jorge Rodríguez in advancing these initiatives, stating that his entry into the Ontinyent City Council "has made many things possible, it has made it possible for us to be heard."
Sanchis thanked the support of the City Council and the Provincial Council of Valencia, noting that the project continues the experience initiated in 2020 with the transfer of a home on Sant Vicent street. ADIEM anticipates that the remaining homes will be gradually occupied.
The coordinating councilor for Casa del Delme, Sayo Gandia, underlined that the project reinforces the building's intergenerational purpose and expands collaboration with ADIEM. The municipal aim is for residents not only to have housing but also to participate in the center's activities and enjoy a space open to all citizens.
The municipal transfer of the homes is free of charge, while ADIEM manages the resource, property maintenance, and user support. The project includes symbolic financial contributions adapted to each resident's means, aiming to facilitate access to a home without economic status becoming an insurmountable barrier.
