In Salvador, Brazil, the city's vulnerable and impoverished populations are a visible presence across various neighborhoods and tourist attractions. Addressing their needs requires a robust social assistance system with adequate funding and infrastructure. The Salvador Social Project, led by the city government of Bahia's capital with support from the World Bank, has played a crucial role in enhancing this system over five years.
The project focused on accelerating initiatives in social support, healthcare, and education. It expanded the number of interviewers for Brazil's Federal Government's Single Registry (CadÚnico) from 60 to 100. This registry is essential for accessing federal programs like Bolsa Família and Gas Aid. Ivana Tonhá from the Municipal Secretariat for Social Promotion explained that improvements included weekend service expansion at Central CadÚnico in Comércio district.
Célia Santos, a retired school cafeteria worker, praised these improvements: "The organization and politeness here are top-notch." Beyond Central CadÚnico, Salvador offers 33 service units and mobile CadÚnico vehicles to reach more residents.
Salvador's social assistance framework includes CRAS and CREAS centers. CRAS prevents social vulnerability through various programs while CREAS addresses rights violations. Emanuele Rodovalho of SEMPRE noted that while there are currently 28 CRAS and seven CREAS centers in Salvador, more are needed due to increased demand during the pandemic.
The first phase of Salvador Social upgraded nine CRAS facilities and relocated ten others to larger premises. It also facilitated recruitment of social assistance professionals. The second phase brought renovations to six CREAS centers.
Inspired by the project's success, the municipality built CRAS Valéria using its own resources. Elisama Brandão, an unemployed mother of five, shared her gratitude: "This CRAS has been a godsend." Andresa Santos also expressed appreciation for the support received as she seeks employment.
Despite challenges in a city like Salvador, these stories highlight how social assistance can impact lives by fostering inclusion and breaking poverty cycles.