The Government delegate in Girona, Xavier Guitart, has confirmed ongoing discussions with Blanes and Lloret de Mar, among other locations, to find new sites for decentralizing services for people experiencing homelessness. This initiative seeks to ease the strain on La Sopa, considered the main resource in the region.
Guitart highlighted that the overcrowding at La Sopa is a constant concern for the administration. He emphasized the crucial work done by the Girona center, both locally and regionally, and stated that the Department of Social Rights and Inclusion is actively working to expand the network of accommodations and services.
Both Lloret de Mar and Blanes are governed by the PSC. These conversations are part of a broader strategy by the socialist Government to diversify support points across the province, avoiding sole reliance on the city of Girona.
This clarification follows statements made in late 2025 by the Minister of Social Rights and Inclusion, Mònica Martínez, who indicated that other locations beyond Girona were being considered for a future low-demand center. However, no specific municipalities were named at that time.
La Sopa, located in Girona's Barri Vell, is the only center in the province offering accommodation, meals, and basic services. The facility underwent several improvement works in 2025, including upgrades to its air conditioning and plumbing systems.
Concurrently, the Girona City Council announced an increase in its contribution to La Sopa for 2026, reaching 1.5 million euros. Mayor Lluc Salellas urged the Generalitat to define its financial commitment and expedite the creation of the new center.
The Department of Social Rights and Inclusion affirms its commitment to finding "real solutions" to homelessness through political collaboration and enhanced funding for local entities. For 2026, improvements are planned to strengthen street outreach teams via an addendum to the Social Services Program Contract.
The Department also monitors local initiatives aimed at increasing temporary stay places or promoting community-based social support actions, pledging to back such projects in line with the Framework for Action on Homelessness in Catalonia. Regular meetings with municipalities are standard practice.
Currently, the Girona City Council covers approximately 70% of La Sopa's annual budget (1.2 million euros in 2025). The Girona Provincial Council contributes 180,000 euros, the Department of Social Rights around 145,000, and the Salt City Council an additional 35,000. The Girona council itself has acknowledged the impossibility of solely funding the building's improvements and the center's high demand.
