Maria do Carmo Gomes da Cruz, 56, who has used a wheelchair since 2015, faces significant daily obstacles in Caniço. Common routes for shopping become challenges due to uneven sidewalks, improperly parked cars, steps, and limited access to establishments.
"Sometimes I have to come onto the side of the road," says the resident, who relies on help from other customers in the supermarket to reach certain products. Lack of accessibility extends to her home, with a narrow ramp and a bathroom that does not allow for safe transfers.
Maria do Carmo has been waiting over 25 years for adapted social housing and is forced to travel to Funchal to access services like the bank.
