Croatia activates social welfare system for wildfire evacuees near Omiš

Croatia's Ministry of Labor, Pension System, Family and Social Policy has mobilized its social welfare system to support residents and tourists evacuated from the Omiš area due to a significant wildfire. The ministry is working closely with various government departments, regional authorities, civil protection services, and the Croatian Red Cross to ensure comprehensive assistance.

Special attention is being given to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals living alone, people with disabilities, children with developmental challenges, and existing social welfare beneficiaries. Social workers from the Croatian Employment Service and the Family Center are on the ground to assess individual needs and provide tailored support. This includes psychological and psychosocial aid, continuity of essential social services, and crisis accommodation if necessary.

As evacuation centers, including the one in Omiš's Ribnjak sports hall, reach capacity, some evacuees are being transferred to Split. The social welfare system is prepared to offer support at all designated locations. Additionally, the ministry is preparing a streamlined process for eligible individuals to receive one-time financial compensation for damages incurred due to the fire. The primary focus remains on ensuring safety, containing the fire, and providing immediate care for the affected population, with further support to be scaled as the situation stabilizes.