About Refugio

Refugio Aboim Ascensão is a private internationally recognized non-profit Christian Charity organization working to better the lives of abused, abandoned and neglected children under the age of 6.

  • Watch a short video about Refugio

Since 1985, Refugio's specialized model of care ‘Emergencia Infantil’ dedicated to infants and young children at risk has earned numerous national and international awards including the prestigious - Diana Princess of Wales Award in 1998. It is also an honorary member of the council of the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children), in 1992 and remains a role model for infant care around the globe.

Care provided

The work of Emergencia Infantil involves a diverse array of therapies, disciplines, education and care specifically created for abused and mistreated infants, and children at risk.

  • Our work - Aside from specially designed therapies, involves a strong component of professional volunteers, integrated with court and governmental departments such, as social security, education and health which compliment children’s legal and social needs.
  • Our Aim - Empower children with coping tools and when possible aid in the return to the biological family. When reintegration with the biological family is not possible we support the adoptive process through the appropriate court system.
Message from the director

Refugio Aboim Ascensao, demonstrates the opportunity to create innovative and quality models of childcare replicable throughout Europe and beyond. Transforming the often difficult dilemma of supporting very young children at risk and promoting the recognition of a child as a citizen, and as such, has legal, social economic and educational rights and needs, and the right to be loved.

- Luis Villas Boas