In Aracati, in northeastern Brazil, a hospital run by the Daughters of Charity has become a vital refuge for hundreds of women and children who are denied access to the most basic healthcare.

In a context marked by extreme poverty, early pregnancies, child malnutrition, and severe limitations in the public health system, the Santa Luísa de Marillac Hospital and Maternity Ward is now the only free maternity and pediatric care facility in the entire region.

“For hundreds of poor women, often very young, the Santa Luísa de Marillac Hospital and Maternity Ward is the only place where they can give birth for free, surrounded by care and respect.” Sr. Patricia

Every year, the hospital welcomes thousands of families in extremely vulnerable situations. In the first half of the year alone, more than 10,000 consultations, 538 deliveries, 1,000 hospitalizations, and 189 gynecological procedures were performed free of charge. This care is provided by a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, accompanied by four Daughters of Charity, who ensure that the medical care provided is both humane and respectful of the dignity of mothers and children.

“Mothers often arrive worried, exhausted by poverty, hunger, and isolation. Many arrive without medical care, without resources, sometimes alone. Here, in this hospital, they find attentive care, healing hands, and reassuring words.” Sr patricia

Project: Equipping a new delivery room

Faced with constantly increasing needs, the hospital currently lacks essential equipment. The project aims to equip and renovate the delivery room in order to improve birthing conditions and enhance the safety of mothers and newborns. The acquisition of a delivery bed and medical equipment, along with the creation of a suitable space, will enable the hospital to offer modern, high-quality care and a more humane approach to patient care.

This project represents real hope for more than 500 pregnant women and their babies, who often have no other access to healthcare. By supporting this initiative, you are directly helping to reduce the risks associated with childbirth and giving children the chance to start their lives in dignified conditions.

If the project is funded beyond its target, the surplus donations received will be allocated to a similar project.