9 October 2026 – The Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Lucena will be able to expand its parish Cáritas facilities thanks to the free transfer of a 893-square-metre plot of municipal land located next to the church. The agreement, formalised with Lucena Town Council, will enable progress on a project aimed at improving the care, support and assistance provided to individuals and families experiencing vulnerable circumstances.
The agreement, signed at the parish church in the presence of municipal representatives, parishioners and volunteers, grants the use of the land free of charge for 75 years and brings to an end a lengthy administrative process involving several public authorities.
Cáritas at the Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel currently supports around 40 families, although this figure may vary at certain times of the year, particularly during agricultural seasons. Its work is carried out in premises measuring approximately 70 square metres, used mainly for storing food and clothing, which limits its capacity to provide individualised assistance.
The new facilities will provide suitable spaces for storage, individual assistance and welcoming families. The planned single-storey building, covering approximately 300 square metres, will be located between the parish church and the courthouse, while the remainder of the plot will be preserved as a green space. Its design must respect the historical and architectural heritage of the church and its surroundings.
The parish priest of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Father Eugenio Bujalance, has emphasised the importance of this project in safeguarding the dignity and privacy of those receiving assistance. The new facilities will provide a more welcoming environment, ensuring that families no longer have to wait outside, exposed to adverse weather conditions.
He also expressed his gratitude for the support of Lucena Town Council, the work of municipal staff, and the dedication of parishioners and Cáritas volunteers, whose commitment has been essential in moving this initiative forward.
For his part, the Mayor of Lucena, Aurelio Fernández, highlighted the valuable social work carried out by Cáritas and the parish community’s perseverance in bringing the project to fruition, emphasising that the agreement will help improve the conditions under which this service is provided.
The parish is now working on the architectural plans, which are being drawn up by Lucena-born architect Sara García, with the intention of giving priority to local professionals and companies during construction. The final budget and construction timetable have yet to be determined.
This initiative marks another step forward in the charitable and social commitment of the parish community of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, whose work, sustained by the dedication of its volunteers, provides essential support to many families in Lucena. The project will enable Cáritas to continue fulfilling its mission through personal care, ongoing support and respect for the dignity of every individual.
