Ana Paula's Journey
Ana Paula, who has been living in Portugal for eight years and works as a caregiver in a nursing home, has recently welcomed a new baby, Heitor, born at Maternidade Alfredo da Costa. Following the demolition of her home in Loures, the local authorities have ensured she can stay at a pension in Lisbon with her three daughters aged 18, 9, and 4.
Continued Support from Authorities
Despite her circumstances, Ana Paula expresses concern over a lack of communication from Social Security regarding her housing situation. On March 14, she shared her fears about potentially losing custody of her baby due to her unstable housing situation, as reported by Lusa.
Community Support and Advocacy
A petition with over 1,000 signatures was initiated to support families like Ana Paula's, urging the government to cease the persecution of families facing eviction. Activists are calling for a support program for vulnerable families during such crises.
Local Government Response
In response, the Loures municipality confirmed that the Institute of Solidarity and Social Security is providing accommodation for Ana Paula's family since the demolition of their self-built home on September 24, 2024. They assured that housing support will continue after the baby's birth and hospital discharge.
Ongoing Challenges
While Ana Paula has submitted her application for municipal housing, there are currently more than 1,000 applications pending for supported rental housing. A protest led by the Vida Justa movement is scheduled in front of the maternity hospital to highlight cases like Ana Paula's, advocating for more robust housing solutions for affected families.
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