New residence for autistic adults officially opens in Annot

A new residence for autistic adults officially opened on 15 July 2026 in Annot, in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department of France.

The project grew out of a partnership between Monaco Disease Power (MDP) and the Cuomo Foundation. H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco attended the ceremony, as did Christophe Robino, Monaco’s Minister of Health and Social Affairs. Maria Elena Cuomo, philanthropist and President of the Cuomo Foundation, attended with representatives of the organisation, while Muriel Natali-Laure, President of Monaco Disease Power, was joined by members of the association’s board. Residents and their families also took part, alongside local representatives.

The opening marks the completion of an innovative project to convert a former hotel into an inclusive residence where autistic adults can live with dignity in a stable environment suited to their needs.

Specialist facilities for autistic children are relatively common in France. Once young people reach adulthood and leave children’s services, however, they face an estimated wait of ten to fifteen years for a place in a specialist adult facility.

To address this gap, the association decided to extend its residential provision to adults. The Cuomo Foundation contributed €552,700, covering the full purchase price of the building. With a total floor area of 330 square metres, the residence has nine bedrooms and shared spaces, including a dining room and a professional kitchen.

The Cuomo Foundation has supported Monaco Disease Power since 2012. The Monaco-based association has extensive experience supporting children with difficulties in social and emotional communication. With the Foundation’s help, it has already developed two flagship projects in Annot. La Maison d’Amélie and La Maison des Copains occupy adjoining buildings and offer respite stays and activities for children and adults with disabilities.

The new residence stands close to both existing homes. By bringing longer-term accommodation and respite services together in one locality, it strengthens Annot’s role as a centre for inclusive care.