The government has placed social inclusion and support for people with disabilities high among its priorities, the Deputy Minister for Social Welfare Klea Papaellina said on Thursday.
Speaking on behalf of the President of the Republic of Cyprus at a charity dinner hosted by the IASONEIO – Colours of Life Foundation, Papaellina said the event highlighted the values of solidarity, generosity and respect for others.
She said the foundation carries out “a truly difficult but deeply human mission”, providing daily care and support through its day centre for adults with disabilities and complex care needs.
Social mission
The deputy minister noted that the centre was created to serve people who often cannot be supported by other structures due to the complexity of their medical and care requirements, underlining the scale of its social mission.
She said the foundation, established in 2015 as an association following an initiative by Chrystalla Dactyliadou, continues to support people with disabilities and their families, who shoulder significant daily burdens.
Papaellina also congratulated the foundation’s president Liza Pelekanou, as well as its staff, professionals, volunteers and supporters for their continued contribution.
“Social care is not simply a service. It is an act of humanity, respect and social responsibility,” she said.
Invest in care
She added that the government recognises the importance of organisations such as IASONEIO and supports their work through state aid schemes run by the Social Welfare Services.
She said the foundation received funding of around €280,000 in 2025 to support its programmes.
Papaellina said the government places social inclusion and disability support at the centre of its policy agenda.
She highlighted recent legislation on social participation, inclusion and independent living for people with disabilities, describing it as a landmark reform aimed at strengthening rights, dignity and quality of life.
“As the state, we continue to invest through action in modern care, support and inclusion services so that no person and no family feels alone,” she said.
She added that no state support is sufficient without cooperation between the state, society and volunteers, stressing that needs in the sector remain significant and ongoing.
CNA
