The scent of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the crisp Milanese air on a recent morning, but for 90-year-old Giuseppe Meneghello, the aroma of hope was far more potent. Just two months ago, despair had clouded his eyes as he faced eviction from the Via Castel Morrone home he had inhabited for over half a century. Today, a new chapter begins in Via Perugino, a testament to the unwavering spirit of community and the responsiveness of Milan’s housing authority, ALER.
A Plea Heard: From Desperation to a New Beginning
Giuseppe’s story is not unique in a city where housing costs continue to soar, yet his particular plight resonated deeply. Beyond his advanced age, he cared for an invalid son suffering from severe psychological distress, a situation that often deterred private landlords who favored more lucrative Airbnb rentals over the complexities of such a tenancy. His case, brought to light by a letter to the Corriere, quickly transcended local headlines, sparking discussion on television and social networks, and ultimately, widening the compassionate embrace of Milan.
“We talk every day about housing as a paradigm of the difficulty of living in an increasingly expensive Milan, and there are thousands of vacant homes, but since Christmas is approaching, isn’t anyone talking about the case of the elderly pensioner facing eviction anymore?” Marinella Boecci wrote in a poignant letter that ignited the public’s attention.
The ALER Intervention: Bending Rules for a Special Case
The turning point arrived with ALER, the regional housing agency. Following the rules of a special tender, ALER authorized an exception to the usual ISEE income requirements, recognizing the unique circumstances of Giuseppe’s situation. His age, his need to remain in an area with established medical care and essential services, and his dependent, disabled son all contributed to the urgency of his case. The new apartment in Via Perugino, while needing some minor adjustments, offers a stable and secure future.
The Unsung Heroes: Isabella and Iaia’s Tireless Efforts
While Giuseppe’s story gained public traction, the true catalysts behind his rescue were two remarkable women from his neighborhood: Isabella and Iaia. These two ladies embodied the spirit of personal responsibility that Archbishop Delpini often speaks of, tirelessly knocking on doors and refusing to accept indifference. They asked themselves, “What can I do?” for a person in distress, and their answer was to act.
Finding an affordable rental home in Milan is a monumental task, yet their combined efforts made the impossible possible. Giuseppe Meneghello himself describes it as a “small Ambrosian miracle,” a testament to the idea that “if you want to, you can do it, and together you can do it better.” Their dedication underscores the vital role that ordinary citizens play in supporting the most vulnerable members of their community, reminding us that true progress often begins with individual acts of kindness.
A Lesson in Community and Compassion
The resolution of Giuseppe’s housing crisis offers a powerful lesson. It highlights the systemic challenges within Milan’s housing market but also celebrates the profound impact of human empathy and collective action. The handshake between ALER President Rizzi and Giuseppe Meneghello was more than a formal gesture; it was a symbol of renewed hope and the affirmation that journalism, when focused on real human stories, can indeed serve a vital purpose.
As Milan continues to evolve, stories like Giuseppe’s serve as a crucial reminder that amidst the rapid pace of urban development and economic pressures, the welfare of its most vulnerable citizens must never be overlooked. The efforts of Isabella and Iaia, coupled with ALER’s flexible response, paint a picture of a city where compassion can still triumph over adversity.
Source: https://milano.corriere.it/notizie/caso-del-giorno/25_dicembre_11/giuseppe-meneghello-cosi-il-90enne-ha-trovato-casa-grazie-a-due-signore-e-al-bando-dell-aler-0c6b8834-533d-42eb-8355-318f4c0b7xlk.shtml
