On Wednesday, 29/07/2026, the Social Inclusion Observatory visited the Municipality of Paros and conducted interviews with the Head of the Independent Department of Social Care and Protection, Ms. Loukia Malamateniou, the educator of the Paroikia Municipal Kindergarten, Ms. Evangelia Vitsadaki, and the President of the Paros Women’s Association ‘Ariis’, Ms. Maria Sifnaiou.
Initially, the Head of the Department referred to the current changes regarding the staffing of the Municipality, as well as the ongoing efforts to deal with the housing insecurity on the island. For her part, the Kindergarten educator described the work and operational framework of the facility, highlighting, among other things, the increased needs presented by toddlers, particularly in recent years. Concurrently, the President of the Association highlighted its social and charitable nature, as well as the initiatives being implemented, which aim to strengthen social cohesion.
On the same day, we visited the Municipality of Antiparos and spoke with the Women’s Association, including the President, Ms. Evangelia Paleologou, and members Ms. Magdalini Kritsantoni and Ms. Emmanouela Michalakopoulou, regarding the Association’s multifaceted work. For its continuous presence and contribution to the local community since 1983, for its support of women, its diverse initiatives (environmental, social, and cultural), as well as the ongoing efforts to preserve cultural heritage and Cycladic customs.
Finally, an interview was also conducted with the Rescuers’ Association, specifically with the President, Mr. Ioannis Triantafyllos, the Secretary, Ms. Despoina Pavlaki, and member Mr. Ioannis Deuterigos. During the discussion, the invaluable medical and social contribution of the Association was highlighted. Founded in 2021 amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, the Association fills a critical gap, as the island lacks a National Emergency Medical Service (EKAB) station. With 52 active and fully certified members, the Association operates in close cooperation with the staff of the Antiparos Regional Multipurpose Medical Center, and its immediate goals include upgrading its equipment and purchasing a rescue boat.
(Text and photographs: Konstantina Kourkoumari & Theodora Symeonoglou)
