Casa Neon Cunha is a 24-hour shelter for the LGBTQIA+ population

Casa Neon Cunha, a support center for vulnerable LGBTQIA+ people, has been operating 24 hours a day since Monday (August 19), including offering shelter for up to 16 homeless people. Opened in 2018, the center has always aimed to provide comprehensive social services, but a lack of resources limited its operations. The expansion of the service was only possible after obtaining parliamentary amendments totaling R$2.19 million, the first public contribution received by the organization.

Of the eight projects submitted for fundraising, five were approved, allowing the home to expand its services. Casa Neon Cunha, recognized for its partnerships with international organizations and brands such as Ambev and Instituto Renner, now has public support, including a R$1.4 million amendment from federal deputy Erika Hilton (PSOL). “Realizing this dream, of offering shelter and humanity, has always been our goal,” said Paulo Araújo, the home’s manager, highlighting the importance of this moment in the institution’s history.

In addition to overnight stays, Casa Neon Cunha offers around 60 daily services, including food, psychosocial assistance and educational programs. The drop in donations threatened to close the house in February, but the new funding has given the house the chance to continue providing services. Araújo emphasizes that the work of reaching out to the private sector and parliamentarians will continue, with the intention of involving more political actors in the LGBT+ agenda.

According to Marcelo Gil, advisor to the LGBT Council of the City of Santo André and founder of the NGO ABCDS, public support is an example to be followed by other administrations. He highlights the importance of permanent local public policies to ensure the safety and well-being of the queer community.

For lawyer Juliana Alves de Oliveira, president of the Sexual and Gender Diversity Commission of the São Bernardo Bar Association, the expansion of Casa Neon Cunha’s services represents an essential step forward for the comprehensive care of a population that faces high levels of vulnerability.

“Casa Neon is not just a shelter, but a home for those who need it most,” Juliana said, emphasizing the importance of 24-hour care to provide safety and dignity to homeless people. The new phase of Casa Neon Cunha is a milestone in promoting the rights and well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community in São Bernardo.

By Ezatamentchy