Brazilian towns open women’s shelter and launch free self‑defense classes
In Mogi Guaçu and neighboring Mogi Mirim, a new Casa da Mulher (Women’s House) opened on July 28, providing institutional shelter for women victims of domestic violence. The facility, jointly funded by the São Paulo state government and the municipalities’ social assistance secretariats, offers 20 safe rooms (10 per city), accommodation for women and children under 17, psychological counseling, social assistance and multidisciplinary support.
In the municipality of Maricá, the city council approved Law 3,775/2026 establishing the Maricá Program of Self‑Defense and Female Empowerment. The program will deliver free personal‑defense classes and workshops in public squares, beaches and community centers, prioritizing vulnerable women, and will run initially for three years under municipal administration.