The TECHNICAL AID BANK was set up in January 2006 by the Mértola Volunteer Centre, with the approval of the Social Network, and was supported for four years by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, which funded it. From that date until now, the BANCO DE AJUDAS has been operating regularly thanks to the responsible work of its volunteers and staff, having already granted 1213 grants up to 13/09/2024. However, based on the experience gained, it was felt that there are advantages in clarifying and further specifying some procedures, based on specific regulations created for this project. The Technical Aids Bank is aimed at all individuals with a disability (permanent or temporary) or handicap living in the Municipality of Mértola who need support equipment, known as "technical aids", for reasons of illness or accident, with a view to mitigating the consequences of lack of mobility and disability and/or providing greater comfort and well-being. Because ageing is often associated with serious health problems, leading to total incapacity in some cases or loss of mobility in others, technical aids (articulated beds, wheelchairs, anti-bedsore mattresses, walkers, etc.) are precious aids for both the patient and the carer, helping to minimise day-to-day problems. The service's mission is to contribute to the well-being of people with loss of autonomy, making their lives more functional and comfortable by providing multiple solutions adapted to different needs.