Yesterday, students from Breda University of Applied Sciences spent an inspiring morning in Bairro Padre Cruz, where they learned about two remarkable organizations creating meaningful impact in Lisbon: Boutique da Cultura and CRESCER – Associação de Intervenção Comunitária, where they had an amazing lunch.
At Boutique da Cultura, they saw how this cultural association supports local development and played a key role in turning the neighborhood into one of Europe’s largest open-air urban art galleries. The non-profit cultural association established in 2013 works tirelessly to promote culture, citizenship, and local development. Special thanks to Marta Mateus, who organized a great session to show these artistic masterpieces, showcasing the neighborhood’s unique cultural identity.Although the weather prevented the planned neighborhood walk, Marta Mateus delivered an engaging and imaginative presentation that still captured the unique spirit of the area.
In the afternoon, the students took part in a workshop at Dona Ajuda, a non-profit social project that embodies solidarity and resilience in Lisbon. Based in the Mercado do Rato, Dona Ajuda collects donated goods and gives them new purpose—selling them at accessible prices to support more than 1,600 families every year. The space functions not only as a second-hand shop, but as a lively community center where cultural activities, creative workshops, and local events help strengthen neighborhood connections.
The visit began with a guided tour and an introduction to Dona Ajuda’s mission: to show that poverty is a temporary condition, not a defining one, and to empower individuals by restoring dignity and creating opportunities. After learning how the organization weaves social, environmental, and cultural impact into its daily work, the students collaborated in a hands-on workshop aimed at improving Dona Ajuda’s online presence and helping them attract future sponsorships.
Through its dedication to sustainability, community support, and cultural engagement, Dona Ajuda demonstrates how small actions,when shared and multiplied can lead to profound, meaningful change.