A modern Community Center providing specialized social care services for children with disabilities, older persons, and other vulnerable groups was inaugurated in Divjaka, Albania. The center was established under Phase 2 of the United Nations Joint Programme “Leave No One Behind” (LNB), funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, and UN Women in close partnership with the Government of Albania.
The facility offers daily rehabilitation and developmental therapies for children with disabilities aged 3–18, delivered by a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, social workers, speech therapists, and physiotherapists. It also provides socio-health services for older persons to promote active ageing, well-being, and social cohesion. The initiative highlights the Government of Switzerland’s commitment to inclusive social care services in Albania, ensuring support for the country’s most vulnerable populations and aligning with Albania’s ongoing social care reforms and national policies.
Developed in partnership with the Municipality of Divjaka, the center forms part of UNDP’s broader efforts to help municipalities create community-based social services for people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. The initiative aims to foster inclusion, equal opportunities, and stronger local social care systems.
UNDP has also supported the Municipality of Divjakë in developing its Local Social Care Plan in accordance with the Law on Social Care Services and implementing an Integrated Social Services Model that delivers tailored, high-quality support in education, social protection, employment, vocational training, and social housing for families in need.
The inauguration was attended by key stakeholders, including Ms. Ina Majko, Deputy Minister of Health and Social Welfare; Ms. Ruth Huber, Swiss Ambassador to Albania; Ms. Randi Davis, UNDP Resident Representative in Albania; and Mr. Josif Gorrea, Mayor of Divjaka.
The “Leave No One Behind” Programme in Albania aims to enhance social services and encourage the active participation of vulnerable groups in public decision-making. This initiative contributes to an inclusive Albania in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and the country’s EU accession agenda.
