SANTA CASA Meaning and
Definition
-
Santa casa is a term of Portuguese origin that literally translates to "holy house." It refers to a charitable institution or a hospital run by the Catholic Church. In Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil and Portugal, "santa casa" specifically designates a type of non-profit organization that offers various social services to the community.
Traditionally, a santa casa is associated with providing healthcare services, such as medical consultations, surgeries, and emergency assistance, often at low or no cost, especially to those with limited financial means. These institutions are typically funded through a combination of government grants, private donations, and revenue generated from medical services rendered.
In addition to healthcare, a santa casa may offer other services like orphanages, elderly care, food and shelter for the homeless, and educational programs. They play a crucial role in providing social welfare support and have become integral parts of the communities they serve.
Furthermore, the term "santa casa" sometimes refers specifically to a specific institution, such as the Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Lisboa in Portugal, which is one of the oldest and most prominent examples of this type of organization.
In summary, santa casa refers to a charitable institution or hospital run by the Catholic Church, providing healthcare and other social services to the community, often targeting those in need or without financial resources.
Etymology of SANTA CASA
The phrase "santa casa" is of Italian and Portuguese origin. In Italian, "santa casa" means "holy house", whereas in Portuguese, it translates to "sacred house". Both terms refer to institutions that are dedicated to charitable and humanitarian activities, such as hospitals or orphanages.
