Thirty minutes from Lisbon, more than a dozen families, including people ranging from 84 years old to infants, have been living in wooden and sheet metal structures for over 30 years.
Fifty people live without water or electricity while waiting for rehousing in Vila Franca de Xira
Saturday, 25 April 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
Social housing (habitação social) is housing provided or subsidised by public authorities so low-income households can access affordable rent or ownership. The Madeira government is investing €4.2 million to build 27 social-housing units in Funchal, a local project that increases affordable supply and can reduce waiting lists; those seeking housing should be aware that eligibility normally requires legal residency and income below set thresholds.
