Fundació ESMEN

Residential and employment support

Fundació ESMEN is a Barcelona nonprofit supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. It works to advance quality of life, independence, and social inclusion through residential care, employment integration, and therapeutic work programs.

Services and programs

• Llar-Residència Albatros: a residential service offering comprehensive care and help with daily activities as an alternative to living at home.
• Centre Ocupacional La Gavina: a daytime social and vocational program that offers an alternative to employment for people with intellectual disabilities.
• Tintoreria Pingüinet (Special Employment Center): dry-cleaning and laundry services that create employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.

History and community activities

On October 10, 2025, the foundation marked its 35th anniversary with a gathering at its Barcelona headquarters on Carrer de les Escoles Pies. More than 200 family members, staff, service users, and friends attended.

The foundation raises awareness through initiatives such as “Nosaltres també” (“We, too”), developed with uTOpia barcelona (ESMEN & CULTURA) and the Sarrià–Sant Gervasi District. Videos featuring people from its arts workshops highlight the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities. The foundation also organizes events such as “Desfilada Diversa,” a fashion show celebrating diversity and empowerment.

Ways to get involved

Members of the public can volunteer, join the friends program, donate, or contribute to specific projects. The foundation also publishes a newsletter about its activities.

Location and contact

Address: 119–121 Carrer de les Escoles Pies, 08017 Barcelona.

Phone: +34 93 212 64 12 or +34 636 191 588.

Email: secretaria@fundacioesmen.org.

Transit: Ronda de Dalt exits 7 and 9; buses H4, V9, H2, and 123; FGC Sarrià station. The nearest parking facility is Centre Mèdic Teknon.

Social media: Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.