Donation Book for the Poor of the Capital, 1857

Given the absence, until the 20th century, of social security mechanisms, the most disadvantaged population often depended on charity coming from private and assistance institutions. An example, among others, is the monetary donations from the Attorney General's Office before the Court of Appeal of Porto registered in this manuscript.

Support for the poor and disadvantaged is also the motto of the artistic intervention in the Palace of Justice of Porto. One of the most important works is a fresco by Júlio Resende [1917-2011] entitled "Assistência à Infância Desvalida - Profilaxia do Crime" (3rd floor, 5th Section), which emphasises the importance of social action in the salvation of children in danger. In said panel, among other personalities, the figure of Padre Américo stands out.