HUG Café at iCBR-FMUC is now open

This is a social innovation project by APPDA Coimbra, in partnership with the University of Coimbra, which promotes the professional inclusion of autistic people.

CO HUG Café has now opened its doors. An innovative space, located at the Institute of Clinical and Biomedical Research of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Coimbra (iCBR-FMUC), in Polo III of the UC, which stands out for its social mission: to promote the professional integration of young autistic people, in a pioneering social innovation project developed by APPDA Coimbra – Portuguese Association for Developmental Disorders and Autism – and the University of Coimbra. At this point, there are already three people with Autism Spectrum Disorder who are part of the HUG Café staff.

This space was designed to welcome the entire local community, including researchers, professionals and students, providing a serene environment that is conducive to socializing and exchanging ideas. More than just a café, this project represents an important step towards the inclusion and employability of young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), offering them job opportunities adapted to their skills and needs.

“HUG Café reinforces APPDA Coimbra’s commitment to creating concrete opportunities for young autistic people, promoting partnerships for a more inclusive and equitable society”, highlights Elsa Vieira, President of this association.

For the Director of iCBR-FMUC, Henrique Girão, this is an opportunity to put ourselves to the test, in the face of difference, which we often have difficulty dealing with, due to the discomfort it causes us. “iCBR, from the very beginning, embraced this initiative, due to the nobility and impact of its objectives, especially to promote inclusion and provide equal opportunities to young autistic people, in a stimulating, responsible and interactive social and professional environment. It is worth highlighting the importance of the previous work, done by Professor Miguel Castelo Branco, so that HUG Café becomes a reality, a good reality!”, he emphasizes.

All interested parties are invited to visit this space and support this innovative initiative. HUG Café is open daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

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