Day Center Pedro José Triest was opened in 1998 to help special children with Mental Retardation, Down syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, etc. The objective is to develop, as much as possible, their autonomy and abilities so that they can reintegrate in society and lead a life as normal and as productive as possible. Parents are trained to realise this goal.  

Professional help is provided on a daily basis for 125 clients aged from four to eighteen. Priority is given to children most in need and often rejected by society. The clients are engaged in learning, creative social and productive activities. Parents receive support and counselling. The personal of 12 is competent: special educators, psychologists. The Director, Brother Víctor Hugo Merino Conde is a graduate psychologist. Volunteers are welcomed to contribute in the program.

There is partial integration within regular schools. Adolescents 14 years old and over are learning tasks in preparation to enter the work market as janitors, kitchen helpers, clerks. The Center offers free transportation and breakfast.

The center is named after Pedro Joseph Triest whose mission was to bring God’s love to those forsaken by society due to mental illness,  mental handicap or other social problem. The Brothers made the choice to help the severely afflicted, often refused by other special schools, called uneducable. They strive to provide hope and a new chance in life through their dedication and professionalism. In the future the center might become a model for similar projects elsewhere in the country.