In August 2023, Kolping Uruguay opened a women’s shelter in the rooms of the former Kolping hotel. It offers homeless mothers and their children a temporary shelter and is a lifeline in times of severe hardship. Kolping Uruguay works so successfully that this sustainable project will continue to receive state funding in its second year.
Many single mothers lost their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic, could no longer pay their rent and ended up living on the street. Kolping Uruguay has turned emergency aid for these underprivileged families into a humanitarian aid project with a holistic approach. It has been so successful that the Ministry of Social Development (MIDES) is extending its support for this Kolping project.
Reintegration into society
A team of 30 qualified staff look after the families. The mothers receive psychological help and the opportunity to earn their own income by undergoing short training in a handicraft or trade. Kolping also offers help with job placement and finding accommodation. The children and young people are looked after by social workers. The main goal of the center is the reintegration of families into society, the integration of women into the labour market and the financial independence of women.
Help with finding accommodation
The main goal is to end the homelessness of women and their children as quickly as possible. In its assisted living program, Kolping helps the families to find accommodation. Psychologists and social workers look after the families and help them find the strength to bring about change in their lives. Even when they have found a new home, the social workers remain at their side. Social workers and psychologists work closely with families to make sure that they adapt to their new environment, resolve any issues that arise and develop the skills needed to live independently. This professional support is essential to ensure that the transition to an independent life is successful and sustainable in the long run.
Support for vulnerable families
The “Hilar” project, which is also supported by the state, assists vulnerable families who have experienced violence and live in inhumane conditions. They are advised on which state benefits and assistance they can claim. The focus here is on the healthy development of the children, and each family receives individual support from a team of psychologists and social workers. They are supported in everyday life, with parenting and all the problems that families face.
