Pope Leo XIV visits Argentina care home for disabled, urges protection for vulnerable

Pope Leo XIV visited the Cottolengo Don Orione care home in Claypole, Argentina, on his first full day in the country, PBS NewsHour reported. The home, known as the "city of charity," houses over 400 people with disabilities and has been impacted by austerity measures.

The austerity policies under President Javier Milei have severely affected healthcare and social services, including specialized therapy programs for Argentina's estimated 5 million people with disabilities. Payments have been frozen, dismantling vital support systems.

During the visit, the pope embraced residents, blessed them, and emphasized that their lives are a blessing, not a burden on society. He urged Argentines to prioritize charity and human dignity over economic success and appearances.

Pope Leo XIV highlighted that a nation's progress is measured by how it treats people with disabilities and special needs. He made his remarks in the care home's chapel, calling for a focus on charity and care.

Although Argentina's Congress passed a law to increase funding for disability care, overriding the president's veto, the administration has resisted implementing it due to fiscal concerns. Care homes like Cottolengo are still owed substantial funds.

Separately, ABC News noted that the pope is expected to celebrate his first mass in Buenos Aires on Monday, with attendance anticipated to exceed one million people.