Pope Leo XIV Visits Disability Center in Argentina, Urges Care for Vulnerable People

Pope Leo XIV visited the Cottolengo Don Orione center in Claypole, south of Buenos Aires, during his first full day in Argentina. The facility, founded by an Italian priest in 1935, houses more than 400 people with disabilities on 123 acres of land.

The pope embraced residents in wheelchairs and blessed them, telling them their lives are a blessing rather than a burden to society. He spoke in the center's chapel about the dignity of every human being.

“A nation's progress is also measured by how it welcomes all people with disabilities and particular needs.”

Leo urged Argentines to replace the pursuit of economic success and the cult of outward appearances with great works of charity. He said a nation's progress is measured by how it welcomes people with disabilities and special needs.

The center has struggled under President Javier Milei's austerity measures, which have affected healthcare and social services. Payments for specialized therapy programs have been frozen, impacting an estimated five million people with disabilities in Argentina.

Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof welcomed the pope at the site and gave him a mate inscribed with Leo XIV. Residents sang to the pope as he arrived in the popemobile.

Argentina's Congress passed a law last year to increase disability care funding, but the administration has resisted implementing it. The Senate is set to consider legislation next year to set aside money for disability benefits.

The pope's visit occurred days before the Senate considers the budget legislation, which Milei opposes.