Castellammare, the "L'Aliante" association to the Prefectural Commissioners: we need a stable place for our children.

The L'Aliante Association, which has been working in Castellammare di Stabia since 2001 to improve the independence of young people and adults with disabilities through art-based therapeutic programs, is launching a new, heartfelt appeal to the institutions to finally resolve the long-standing issue of the missing headquarters.

After Covid, when the space used was declared unfit for use, the Municipality no longer guaranteed an alternative facility, forcing the association to operate in precarious conditions. The president, Annamaria Auricino Santoro, mother of one of the young people involved in L'Aliante, is now appealing to the prefectural commissioners who have taken office to lead the city, urging them to recognize the need—and right—to a stable place to continue their activities. Music therapy, art therapy, and theater—the core of the project carried out by the association—are fundamental to the quality of life of its participants; they are tools that allow them to communicate, grow, and maintain skills and relationships.

Without a headquarters, the efforts made over the years risk being wasted, depriving beneficiaries of a resource that has supported their journey to well-being.

"Now we would like to continue our journey with enthusiasm and passion, but above all in a suitable venue," said President Auricino the day after the recital performed by the association's members at the Hotel Miramare in Castellammare di Stabia in May of this year, which received a full and favorable response from the large audience in attendance.

For the show's rehearsals—which highlighted the performers' great motivation and determination—a room in the president's professional studio was used, the same space that now serves as a support point for the activities.

This is a temporary solution, but it cannot permanently replace the need for a home that can provide continuity and dignity to the work of this group of dedicated individuals. Such an activity deserves adequate space, with sufficient capacity to accommodate others who may need it. To deny it, to ignore this need, to continue ignoring its value, would be tantamount to undermining the efforts of those who, with conviction and dedication, have seen in this experience a chance for redemption—including social redemption—for their relatives.

President Auricino's appeal awaits a concrete response; this is no longer the time for promises. The Castellammare community must not forget these people and, above all, not miss the opportunity to demonstrate that vulnerability is a shared responsibility. Only then can it assert itself—beyond the challenges that often obscure its presence—as a just community, driven by living values ​​that guide its horizons.

Anyone wishing to support the L'Aliante association can write to: assoaliante@gmail.com