Buenos Aires Herald 
Over 4,000, low-income workers and people experiencing houselessness attended an olla popular (a community meal organized by volunteers and social organizations) in front of Congress on Christmas Eve.
Food was donated by neighbors and volunteers for the “No family without Christmas” celebration on Sunday, which was organized by Movimiento de Trabajadores Excluidos (MTE), Nuestramérica, Proyecto 7 and Unión de Trabajadores y Trabajadoras de la Economía Popular.
“There’s nothing more important than loving those who need it,” wrote MTE leader Juan Grabois on X (formerly Twitter). “We do it with solidarity, but also organizing ourselves and fighting. I want to thank all activists, volunteers, those who donated or worked, and those who joined in to share this Christmas.
Congratulations to the movements and popular organizations for the indefatigable work that brightens the future.”
The initiative began in 2016 and has been a mainstay ever since. This year the event had nationwide protests against President Javier Milei’s megadecree as a backdrop, several of which took place in front of Congress.
Former Buenos Aires legislator for Unión por la Patria Ofelia Fernández also participated in organizing the dinner. “Like every year, Christmas was organized in Congress for homeless families. Until one day it’s no longer needed. Here’s to the immense commitment of the social movements. Merry Christmas to all!” she wrote in her personal X account.
On top of the dinner served by volunteers, the celebration also included a children’s corner with bouncy castles, ball pits and Christmas presents. There was also a personal hygiene space with a hair salon, showers, and toilets. Singer Santiago Motorizado gave a live show before the dinner and bishop Gustavo Carrara gave the Christmas blessing.
You may also be interested in: How to have a wonderful Christmas time in Buenos Aires
—with information from Télam
