The Special Educational Needs students had the opportunity to connect with the Occupational Centre La Torre in Valencia, one of the places severely affected by the hurricane of 29 October. Through a video call, they shared experiences and learned first-hand about the difficult situation experienced after the catastrophe.
The 1,000 euros raised in the solidarity raffle of Peace Week, with the collaboration of the AMPA Marcelo Gangoiti, have been a small contribution to the recovery of the centre. A gesture that symbolises the commitment and empathy of our educational community.
During the video call, Carlos, Roberto, Ana Cruz and Gloria, representatives of the Centre La Torre, recounted how they dealt with those difficult days. They explained that, thanks to the help of 300 volunteers, they have managed to rehabilitate the centre after it was completely destroyed. However, some students are still unable to attend because the adapted van is still not operational.
One of the most moving moments was when they shared the story of Susana and her father, who sadly lost their lives in the tragedy. In their honour, on 28 March, they will organise a farewell ceremony, a tribute that keeps their memory alive in the community.
Beyond the catastrophe, they also told us about their day-to-day life at the centre, where they run pottery, handicraft, vegetable garden, carpentry and work integration projects. For our part, Naroa, Ekain, Iraia, Iren and Izaro presented some of our solidarity initiatives, such as the Peace Week raffle, fair trade or the sale of organic citrus fruits with a company from Pedreguer (Valencia), which aroused great interest among our interlocutors.
The meeting left moments of deep emotion and learning. As Gloria, the centre’s director, said: ‘The social network is strengthened in difficult times, because people come together to help those who suffer. In the midst of sadness, there are always glimmers of hope and gratitude’.
From Somorrostro, we can only thank you for this inspiring exchange, reminding us of solidarity’s true value.
📸 Before and after photos at Centre La Torre:
