Herencia has reopened its doors for the solidarity program “Vacaciones en Paz,” an initiative that allows Sahrawi children to spend the summer with host families in the province, giving them a break from the harsh conditions of the Tinduf refugee camps.
The welcoming event took place on Tuesday at the Municipal School of Music, characterized by the emotional involvement of families, the commitment of associations, and the institutional dedication to a humanitarian project that fosters bonds between the Sahrawi people and municipalities like Herencia.
A Summer of Hosting, Health, and Togetherness
The “Vacaciones en Paz” program allows Sahrawi minors to enjoy a more favorable environment during the summer months, with access to medical check-ups, balanced nutrition, and leisure activities. For many of these children, their stay in Spain offers a chance to escape the high desert temperatures and share daily life with welcoming families.
The welcome event gathered host families, representatives from the El Uali Association, members of the Provincial Federation of Friends of the Sahrawi People, and local government officials. The provincial delegate for Social Welfare, Eulalio Díaz-Cano, also attended and distributed materials from the Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha to the children.
The day served to recognize the role of those who make the program possible: the host families, the associations coordinating the arrival and stay of the minors, and the administrations collaborating to ensure a smooth experience.
Herencia: A Hub of Solidarity
The Herencia City Council emphasized the human value of this initiative during the reception. The mayor expressed pride in the municipality being a meeting point for this solidarity program, considering it to represent “the best of our society: generosity, commitment, and the ability to open our homes to those in need.”
The mayor also thanked the involvement of the host families, Sahrawi organizations, and everyone working to give these children a summer filled with opportunities. Each arrival is backed by months of organization, paperwork, coordination between associations, and support for families.
Beyond the temporary stay, “Vacaciones en Paz” has a strong awareness component. The program raises awareness in the community about the reality faced by the Sahrawi people and maintains a support network largely sustained by the solidarity of local families and groups.
A Project That Builds Lasting Bonds
With this new edition, the Herencia City Council reaffirms its support for a project that combines humanitarian aid, togetherness, and cooperation. Each shared summer enhances the well-being of the minors for a few weeks while also strengthening the ties between communities that have supported each other for years.
For host families, the experience often goes beyond just temporary help. Daily living, shared activities, and relationships with the children create lasting emotional bonds, which is why many families choose to participate year after year.
In this way, Herencia joins an initiative that highlights the importance of local solidarity, expressed through open homes, daily care, and simple gestures. Once again, the municipality contributes to giving these children the chance to enjoy rest, care, and new experiences away from the challenges of the camps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vacaciones en Paz program?
It is a solidarity initiative that allows Sahrawi children to spend the summer with host families in Spain, away from the harsh conditions of the Tinduf refugee camps.
Where was the reception held in Herencia?
The welcome event took place at the Municipal School of Music, attended by families, associations, and institutional representatives.
What does the program provide for the minors?
It offers them weeks of rest, medical check-ups, balanced meals, and leisure activities in a family environment.
Spanish post in Herencia recibe a los niños saharauis del programa Vacaciones en Paz
