Foundation Stone Laid for a New Accommodation Facility at the “Duje” Reception Center
As part of its continuous efforts to improve living conditions for beneficiaries, MFS-EMMAUS continues the modernization and construction of new, contemporary accommodation capacities at the “Duje” Reception Center in Doboj Istok.
With the aim of providing beneficiaries with a safe, dignified, and comfortable environment, the foundation stone for the construction of a new accommodation facility was laid today.
The funds for the realization of this significant project were provided by the long-term partner organization The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, whose representatives attended the ceremony.
In addition to the donor representatives, the foundation stone ceremony was attended by the Prime Minister of Tuzla Canton, Irfan Halilagić, representatives of federal and cantonal ministries, members of state, federal, and cantonal parliaments, mayors and municipal heads, representatives of social welfare centers and healthcare institutions, as well as numerous associates, partners, and friends of MFS-EMMAUS.
The planned project includes the construction of three new, functional, and modernly equipped buildings that will replace existing capacities and enable higher-quality accommodation and care for the Center’s beneficiaries. The new infrastructure is aimed at improving the overall quality of life of beneficiaries, including larger living spaces, facilities adapted for persons with disabilities, and dedicated areas for healthcare and rehabilitation.
James W. McConkie III, Counselor in the Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the Central Europe Area, stated that this project is something they are particularly grateful for. He emphasized that it represents an opportunity to support those in the community who are most in need of help and who might otherwise be lonely and without adequate care. He expressed gratitude to organizations such as MFS-EMMAUS, as well as to the Government, which will act as a partner and contribute to the realization of this project.
“Through the letter of intent sent by the relevant ministry and confirmed by the Government of Tuzla Canton, we have clearly expressed our readiness to support the construction of this facility at the Duje Reception Center. Every time we come here, we are convinced of the enthusiasm, dedication, and humane dimension of the work of every individual at this center, led by responsible management. I thank the donors for recognizing MFS-EMMAUS as a reliable partner, as well as all of us who will, in various ways, be co-participants in this good deed,” stated the Prime Minister of Tuzla Canton.
On behalf of the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Policy, Adnan Delić, the attendees were addressed by the Minister’s Advisor, Tarik Smajlbegović, who conveyed part of the Minister’s message on the occasion of today’s event. An excerpt of the message reads:
“I would like to thank the International Forum of Solidarity – EMMAUS, an organization that does not merely speak about solidarity. Emmaus lives it, embodies it, and proves it. They build opportunities where none existed, weave networks of support around those who need it most, and restore lives slowly, steadily, and without giving up.
That is why today’s foundation stone is the first word in a long story. A story of purpose. Of love. Of self-sacrifice. And of the best within us. Every phase of construction will be a confirmation that a society is worth as much as it cares for those who cannot care for themselves.”
Nisvet Mujanović, Assistant Minister to Nerin Dizdar at the Federal Ministry of Displaced Persons and Refugees, emphasized that the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina will continue to support the work of MFS-EMMAUS through two line ministries. He stressed that good cooperation will continue both in Doboj Istok and in other communities where MFS-EMMAUS operates.
“I am pleased that we have begun the implementation of such an important project, which should serve as an example to others of how facilities should look—from the design phase to final implementation. This is a symbiosis between the non-governmental and governmental sectors, our shared commitment that no person deserves to be left to fend for themselves,” emphasized Fadil Alić, Minister of Labor, Social Policy, and Return of Tuzla Canton.
The goal of these investments is to provide modern infrastructure and a higher quality of services for 486 beneficiaries of the “Duje” Reception Center, who come from all parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Center’s beneficiaries include elderly persons, persons with disabilities, persons with intellectual difficulties, and users facing various health and social challenges.
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