Divjaka, Albania – A modern Community Center providing specialized social care services for children with disabilities, older persons, and other vulnerable groups was inaugurated today in Divjaka. The center was established under Phase 2 of the United Nations Joint Programme “Leave No One Behind” (LNB), funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, and UN Women, in close partnership with the Government of Albania.

The new facility offers:

• Daily rehabilitation and developmental therapies for children with disabilities aged 3–18, delivered by a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, social workers, speech therapists, and physiotherapists.
• Socio-health services for older persons to promote active ageing, well-being, and social cohesion.

This initiative underscores the Government of Switzerland’s commitment to inclusive social care services in Albania, ensuring that no one is left behind—especially the most vulnerable members of society. The services provided at the center are fully aligned with Albania’s ongoing social care reform and national policies supporting vulnerable populations.

Developed in partnership with the Municipality of Divjaka, the center is part of UNDP’s broader efforts to help municipalities create community-based social services for people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, fostering inclusion and equal opportunities.

“The Community Center in Divjaka is proof of our dedication to strengthening social care systems,” said Ms. Randi Davis, Resident Representative of UNDP in Albania. “This center not only provides critical services but also empowers local communities to address the needs of their most vulnerable members.”

As part of the LNB Joint Programme, UNDP has supported the Municipality of Divjakë in developing its Local Social Care Plan, as required by the Law on Social Care Services, and in implementing an Integrated Social Services Model that delivers tailored, high-quality services in education, social protection, employment, vocational training, and social housing for families in need.

The inauguration event was attended by Ms. Ina Majko, Deputy Minister of Health and Social Welfare; Ms. Ruth Huber, Swiss Ambassador to Albania; Ms. Randi Davis, UNDP Resident Representative in Albania; and Mr. Josif Gorrea, Mayor of Divjaka, along with other key stakeholders and local partners.

The “Leave No One Behind” Programme in Albania aims to enhance social services and foster the active participation of vulnerable groups in public decision-making processes, contributing to an inclusive Albania aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the country’s EU accession agenda.