The '13 Houses' program by Berakah is dedicated to helping vulnerable families in Vitoria access and maintain dignified housing. This initiative, inspired by a historical experience of Saint Vincent de Paul in 17th-century Paris, which built 13 houses for homeless people, has transformed the lives of many families, offering them stability and a better future.
Before entering the program's apartments, many families pass through other Berakah resources, such as Hogar Belén, a temporary residence where they share spaces and reorganize their lives. After this transitional period, they are offered the opportunity to access one of the '13 Houses' program dwellings, where each family has its own space and achieves greater autonomy.
The case of Gloria Rengifo is a clear example. She arrived in Vitoria on April 29, 2024, and received support from Berakah. After about eight months at Hogar Belén, in September she moved to a '13 Houses' program apartment with her daughter on Gasteiz Avenue. Despite difficulties working after suffering a stroke in 2025, her new home has brought her calm and gratitude.
“"It is very difficult to get an apartment; for me, it was like a light."
Jessica and her husband, Yerson, arrived in Vitoria in August 2023 from Colombia. After initial uncertainties, they found support at Berakah and stayed at Hogar Belén. Yerson received treatment for anxiety, and both found work. Today, they live in one of the '13 Houses' program apartments, achieving stability and strengthening their bond with Yerson's daughter.
“"Having a home means being able to provide a home for her daughter. A stability."
Njoua, who arrived in Vitoria in 2022 with her children, found herself without housing after separating from her partner. Thanks to Berakah's support, after more than a year at Hogar Belén, she now resides in a '13 Houses' program apartment. Additionally, she volunteers in the organization's activities, translating for newcomers and collaborating in the Café Calor reception space.
Carlos and Yanina, from Peru, arrived in March 2024 with their four children. Initially, eleven people lived in the same dwelling. Through Berakah, they accessed Hogar Belén and subsequently an apartment in the '13 Houses' program. The change was significant, providing more space and privacy for the entire family.
“"It is a project that shows unconditional love. It sees no races."
Psychiatrist María Artamendi, who joined Berakah as a volunteer in 2023, highlights the invisible work behind the '13 Houses' project. She accompanies processes, mediates conflicts, and addresses the difficulties families face in integrating into the housing market. Given the high rental prices in Euskadi, access to dignified housing becomes a key component for social integration.
