Rio Neva – The Environmental Defense Association ranked first in European Union Health Prize, in the mental health category. The 2021 edition focused on cancer prevention and mental health, with 110 applications received from 15 member countries.
It was through the projectgreen time – Activities in Nature for Active Aging”, developed in 2021, the Portuguese organization has gained prominence among the rest. The initiative was based on regular natural activities targeting the most vulnerable groups of elderly people in Esposindi, with the aim of enhancing their physical and mental well-being. The project also wanted to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 and isolation for these people.
“We work with and with 12 IPSS locally, in which 282 seniors regularly participate. It has been an intense yet rewarding process, confirmed by improvement in their well-being and reduced feelings of depression and isolation. We hope this initiative will serve as inspiration, and contribute to a future where nature and health converge. welfare and civil society together.As the Rio Neva says in a statement.
The award was handed over to Rui Monteiro at European Commission Headquarters, on 4 May, by Isabel de la Mata Barranco, Principal Adviser for Health and Crisis Management at the European Commission, and by Philippe Roux, Head of Unit in the Directorate-General on Health and Food Safety of the European Commission.
