Mérida’s First Shelter for Homeless Women Opens in 2026

Mérida, Mexico — The Mérida City Council, in coordination with the civil association Igualdad con Perspectiva A.C., will provide care and protection to homeless women through the city’s first temporary shelter for this vulnerable population. Authorities have supervised the space that will house these women.

“We are taking an important step in protecting our most vulnerable women. This shelter, the first of its kind in Mérida, is a space of hope and support for those who need it most. That is why I am grateful that major projects always come hand in hand with civil society, because only in this way, working together, can we continue building a more just and safe Mérida for everyone,” said Mayor Cecilia Patrón Laviada.

This project is being developed through the Municipal DIF, in close collaboration with the association Igualdad con Perspectiva A.C.

The City Council, following approval from the municipal council, will grant a property located in the Emiliano Zapata Sur III neighborhood through a usufruct agreement.

The mayor emphasized that collaboration between the municipal government and civil associations has enabled the implementation of innovative projects like this shelter that improve the quality of life for Mérida residents through health, education, social assistance, culture, and recreation programs, optimizing resources and capabilities for the benefit of the community.

“This shelter is a symbol of Mérida’s solidarity and commitment to homeless women, who face high risks of violence. Here, each woman, in addition to receiving comprehensive care and protection, will find a safe place and support to rebuild her life,” she stated.

Currently, the City Council’s Public Works Department is working on adapting the facilities to leave them in optimal condition. Additionally, soon, the signing of the agreement will take place that will provide legal certainty to the association that will be responsible for the use of this place, which is expected to begin operations in early 2026.

The property has an area of 1,379.48 square meters and is located at Calle 141 number 316, in the Emiliano Zapata Sur III neighborhood. The civil association Igualdad con Perspectiva will be in charge of the design, construction, and operation of the project, which will have a capacity to serve 30 women.

In this space of support and transformation, women in vulnerable situations will be able to develop socio-emotional, psychological, and social competencies, with the goal of overcoming mental health problems, addictions, and homelessness, and rebuilding their lives with new opportunities and a more promising future.

The shelter’s model will be similar to that of the El Buen Samaritano center, which operates with open access. Users will be able to arrive at night to have dinner, bathe, change clothes, and sleep, and the next day they will have the option to return to their daily activities or continue with their rehabilitation process.

Regarding care for homeless men, the El Buen Samaritano association is responsible for offering them overnight accommodation and meals. On the other hand, the Arca de Noé Association provides spaces and support services to people struggling with addictions.