Quem, a Portuguese social initiative, announced a new aid programme in Lisbon aimed at supporting low-income families. The initiative, launched on 15 April, seeks to address rising poverty rates in the capital, where 18% of residents live below the poverty line, according to the Lisbon City Council. The programme includes food distribution, housing assistance, and job training, targeting over 10,000 households in the city.
What the Programme Entails
Quem, a non-profit organisation founded by social entrepreneur Nabeiro, has partnered with local government agencies to roll out the new initiative. The programme will distribute 50,000 food packages monthly to families in need, with a focus on districts such as Alcântara and Benfica. In addition to food aid, participants will have access to free vocational courses and housing support, aiming to break the cycle of poverty.
The initiative also includes a digital platform where residents can apply for assistance and track their progress. Nabeiro, who has previously led community projects in Porto, said the programme is designed to be "sustainable and community-driven." "We want to empower people, not just provide temporary relief," he said in a recent interview.
Why It Matters in Portugal
Portugal has seen a steady rise in poverty since the 2008 financial crisis, with Lisbon being one of the hardest-hit regions. The latest data from the Portuguese Institute of Statistics shows that 18% of the population in Lisbon lives in poverty, with many struggling to afford basic necessities. The government has faced criticism for not doing enough to support vulnerable communities, and Quem's programme is seen as a response to this gap.
The programme also comes at a time of political uncertainty. With early elections expected in 2025, opposition parties have used poverty as a key issue. Quem's initiative could influence public perception of the government's social policies, particularly in urban areas where poverty is most visible.
Broader Implications for the Region
While the initiative is focused on Lisbon, its impact could extend beyond Portugal. The model has drawn interest from other European cities facing similar challenges. Experts suggest that Quem's approach could serve as a blueprint for other regions looking to combine grassroots efforts with government support.
However, critics argue that the programme may not be enough to address the structural issues behind poverty. "This is a good step, but we need long-term policy changes," said Ana Ferreira, a social policy analyst at the Lisbon School of Economics. "The real challenge is ensuring that aid leads to lasting economic mobility."
Supporters and Skeptics
Supporters of the programme include local business leaders and community organisations, who see it as a way to reduce social inequality. "We need more initiatives like this to help people lift themselves out of poverty," said João Silva, a small business owner in Alcântara. "It’s not just about giving food—it’s about giving people a chance."
Skeptics, however, worry about the sustainability of the programme. Some question whether the funding will be enough to cover the long-term needs of the 10,000 households targeted. "Without a stable financial base, this could collapse after a few months," said Maria Costa, a representative from the Lisbon Social Workers' Union.
What to Watch Next
The success of Quem’s programme will be closely monitored in the coming months. A mid-year review is scheduled for 15 July, where the effectiveness of the aid distribution and training initiatives will be assessed. If the programme shows positive results, it could lead to expansion into other Portuguese cities, including Porto and Coimbra.
For now, the focus remains on the immediate needs of Lisbon's poorest residents. As the city continues to grapple with economic challenges, Quem's initiative offers a glimpse of what community-driven solutions can achieve—though its long-term impact remains to be seen.
