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At a time when the world was retreating into its homes, the homeless remained on the streets. How are the organisations that support these most vulnerable people able to operate? Are they still able to provide meals and basic care? Are they still receiving help from volunteers? and how is this work being carried out?

I decided to contact the Association Casa and see firsthand the work they are doing in such extraordinary times. The outcome of these visits was later featured in Observador, a Portuguese online newspaper.

Marco and João have just arrived at Rua Ladislau Parreira, in the old part of Setúbal. One is a cook, the other a counter attendant. Both are volunteers at the CASA association, which helps the homeless in the city. “Since we are out of work, we decided to help. We made an appeal on Facebook through our circle of friends, managed to raise some money, and bought food.” They have been cooking every day for the past three weeks, except on Saturdays when the association is closed. They only make vegetarian dishes and eggs—and try to vary the menu. “A few days ago, we made peas with poached eggs to provide more protein-rich meals. Fortunately, many people in the square already know us and offer us something every day.”

There are more and more people to help. “The average number of people we assist at this stage is 45; on Friday, it was 60. Before the coronavirus outbreak, it was 22. We’ve managed to perform miracles every night,” says Susana Marques, one of the coordinators of the branch, while trying to maintain order among those gathering near CASA: “Keep your distance from one another, take care of your safety.”

Rogério is 70 years old and Maria da Conceição is 75—they are among the longest-serving volunteers. When asked if he is not afraid of being infected as part of a high-risk group, Rogério shrugs: “It’s true, but it has to be done. Who will help these people if we all stay home?” Maria da Conceição nods behind her glasses: “I went to the wedding of the father of that young man who was just served…”

Maria João is another volunteer. She is a lab technician at Hospital Cuf Descobertas, where many of the COVID-19 tests are processed. Initially, these volunteers worked directly on the street; now they have a space provided by actor Luís Aleluia. Large retailers provide the most help to the organization, but it is still not enough at this stage, so the contribution of many small merchants and the food bank has been crucial. “If there is no prepared food for everyone, the team puts together the most complete basket possible, with yogurts, bread, and some fresh items. Just last week, we had a fisherman who gave us cuttlefish, and since we had beans, we ended up making a cuttlefish stew. It was a success,” recalls Susana Marques.