A life dedicated to helping and fighting against social exclusion

How would you describe yourself and how do you think you have changed since you created the association?

I am still the same person: approachable, sensitive, generous, and very demanding. I help anyone who knocks on my door. I don’t forget where I come from or who I was, and that is important for understanding needs and staying close to the people who need it most.

What motivated you to found the Pato Amarillo Association?

I have eaten from the trash, I have lived on the streets, and it pains me when I see people who suffer from illness and rejection and who eat whatever they can find in dumpsters. We also created the association because I saw many young people left out on the streets due to drugs, youths who suffered constant scorn and exclusion.

What was the situation like in Orcasitas in the 1980s when this work began?

There was a lot of poverty, many shanties, but very good people. Unfortunately, drugs came along and ruined everything. There is still a vulnerable, difficult, and distressing environment for many people who continue to receive no support. Those who need help the most are the young.

What role do you think the “Madres contra la droga” played in the creation of the association?

All of us—mothers, daughters, neighbors—have fought like lions to help the kids in the neighborhood. We made our lives harder by going into the places where drugs were being sold. We shouted that it wasn’t right for young people’s lives to be taken away. We also went to prisons to bring them food and clothes, and to hospitals to give them one last hug when they were already dying.

Can you share a story that left a deep mark on you?

I have many. I remember when years ago I entered the 12 de October hospital, in Madrid, to meet some kids who were sick. I would hold their hands, and soon after, I would call in their families so they could say goodbye. That experience stayed with me forever. And of course, the death of my own daughter

What message would you like to convey to those who are not yet familiar with the work of Pato Amarillo?

Don’t hesitate to come lend a hand. Pato has something special, because everyone who comes in ends up staying. Just imagine the personal and social impact of being able to support around 350 families every month, distributing food and clothing to more than 2,000 people—all thanks to the work of so many volunteers who unload trucks, hand out food, and offer their best smile. Many of them once received our help themselves, and that fills me with pride.

What do you think we need the most as a society?

More solidarity, respect, and a sense of community—values that reduce conflict and encourage dialogue. I have always emphasized the importance of rejecting discrimination and fighting for equal opportunities, which is key to allowing more people to have a better future, regardless of their background or economic situation.

What makes you happiest?

I have very sad moments, but what brings me the most joy is seeing my family and many others move forward thanks to the work we do, like a mother in the neighborhood who was left alone with two daughters, who have now been able to go to university. I am happy helping anyone who knocks on my door. The truck we received this year, donated by Fundación MAPFRE, with more than 10,000 kilos of food, also moved me and truly made me happy.

SUPPORT

Last June, Fundación MAPFRE delivered more than 10,000 kilos of food, including fresh food and non-perishable food, to the Pato Amarillo Association in Madrid The initiative was the result of a fundraising and food collection campaign in which hundreds of people participated, raising around €18,000.