Elderly women face housing and safety crises in Argentina and Peru

In Argentina, the municipality of Plaza Huincul and local judicial authorities have intervened to assist Susana Gallardo Leighton, an elderly woman over 80 years old. After being found by neighbors in a state of distress, Ms. Gallardo Leighton reported experiencing verbal abuse and mistreatment from a family member and their partner. She had fled her home to escape the situation, leaving her in a state of homelessness. Local social development services have since provided her with temporary shelter and are coordinating with the judiciary.

In Peru, 85-year-old Erlinda Canayo Pacaya is seeking urgent assistance due to the precarious condition of her home in the San Juan Bautista district. The structure's facade is significantly tilted toward the street and is currently held up by provisional ropes attached to a neighboring building. Living on a limited pension and with a daughter in delicate health, Ms. Canayo Pacaya has called upon local authorities and the public for help to prevent a potential structural collapse, especially during periods of heavy rain and wind.