The recent floods in Alcácer changed everything for our institution. In a single moment, we saw years of effort and dedication swept away by the water. Among the greatest losses is our laundry facility—a space built with so much commitment,
The recent floods that hit Alcácer have left deep scars on our institution—scars that go far beyond material damage. In just a few hours, we saw a space built with years of effort, dedication, and care severely affected, compromising our ability to respond to those who need it most.
Among the areas most affected is our laundry, an essential service that was made possible thanks to the support of the PPR2020 program. This space was not just a functional infrastructure — it was a fundamental pillar of our daily lives.
It was in the laundry that we ensured, with rigor and dignity, the proper care of the clothing of our approximately 120 users. People who depend on us daily for basic care, comfort, and quality of life. Furthermore, this service also extended to the community, reinforcing our commitment to closeness and solidarity with everyone.
Today, everything has changed.
The floodwaters completely destroyed the industrial equipment — washing machines, dryers, irons, ironing boards — leaving the laundry totally inoperable. What was once a space of care and support is now a scene of loss and helplessness.
Without this service, we face enormous difficulties in guaranteeing basic hygiene and well-being conditions for our users. What seemed guaranteed has suddenly become a daily emergency.
But we believe in the strength of the community. We believe that, together, we can transform this difficulty into an opportunity for reconstruction.
We need your support to restore our laundry facility — to acquire new equipment, renovate the space, and return this essential service to all those who depend on it.
Every contribution, no matter how small it may seem, is a crucial step towards resuming the dignified care our patients deserve.
Help us rebuild what the waters have taken away. Help us continue to care.
About the author
For over 40 years, AURPICAS has been much more than an institution. It's a home. A home of affection. A home of dignity. A home of memories.
Founded on December 10, 1980, the Unitary Association of Retirees, Pensioners and Senior Citizens of the Municipality of Alcácer do Sal was born with a simple and profound purpose: to care for those who have already cared for us all.
Under the motto "reaching further and helping more people," we have grown with and for the community. We have become a Private Institution of Social Solidarity and a public utility entity. For four decades, we have supported generations of elderly people with professionalism, human connection, and absolute respect for their dignity.
AURPICAS stands for:
20 elderly people in Accommodation Center
• 40 elderly people in Day Center
• 60 elderly people receive daily support at home
• 48 residents in the "Residencia Jorge Marques" Residential Structure
• 62 female workers who have made this mission their life
Community Centers in the towns of Palma, Arez and Montevil
• A Craft Center that preserves the memory and traditions of the municipality and a Laundry
The Floods of 2026: The Loss of a Home.
The floods that devastated Alcácer do Sal completely submerged the buildings on Avenida dos Aviadores — our headquarters for about 40 years.
The water rose almost to the ceiling. For days. When it receded, it left behind a devastating scene.
In a matter of minutes, what had been built up over a lifetime was lost.
Our "AURPICAS House" was completely destroyed.
And yet, we didn't stop.
In an almost superhuman effort, we continue to serve meals. We continue to provide home support. We continue to care.
But the logistics are extremely difficult. Resources are limited. And our elderly—who have already lived so long—deserve more than improvisation.
They deserve stability. They deserve comfort. They deserve a home.
Today, we need help.
AURPICAS is not asking for itself. It is asking for its elderly. It is asking for those who depend on us daily. It is asking for an entire community.
We need:
• Rehabilitate the buildings on Avenida dos Aviadores
• Replace all destroyed furniture and equipment
• Re-equip kitchens and laundry rooms
• Replenish clinical and administrative supplies
• To reclaim spaces for social interaction and dignity.
Every contribution will be a step towards giving back to our elderly what the water took from them: safety, comfort, and a sense of home.
We are facing a tragedy. But also an opportunity for unity. Companies have a fundamental role to play in rebuilding the social fabric. By supporting AURPICAS, they will be directly investing in the dignity of dozens of elderly people and in the social future of Alcácer do Sal.
It's not just about rebuilding walls. It's about rebuilding lives. It's about restoring hope.
Budget and due dates
Main Equipment (Industrial)
Industrial washing machines (high capacity, 18kg-22kg)
Industrial dryers
a Calender (for sheets and flat linen)
Ironing Equipment
- 2 Professional Ironing Boards
- 2 Industrial steam irons
Equipment to Support Washing
- Automatic detergent dispensing system
- Storage containers for detergents and disinfectants
- Laundry carts (separate: dirty and clean)
- Containers for contaminated laundry
Organization and Storage
- Shelves and racks for clean clothes.
- Cabinets for products and consumables
- Sorting and folding tables for clothes
- Baskets and laundry dividers
