Keeping the Family Together Above All Else

Eduardo used to be a small businessman who sold sophisticated Swedish designed tube chairs throughout Argentina. He employed 8 people in his company and business was successful.

Eduardo’s wife Patricia, worked for several years as a psychologist at health institutions that were unable to pay her fees. They didn't care though, as Eduardo's business was profitable. The family enjoyed spending free time at their local Jewish Community Center, where Eduardo would play sports with his two children, Jacob, age 16 and Melina, age 11.

By the end of the 1990's, Eduardo's business shrank due to the recession that was affecting the country's economy. By the end of 2001 though, he was forced to close the company for good. Nowadays, he does some rare iron work for old acquaintances. "It is not easy to transform from a businessman to a laborer," says Eduardo, who in addition to performing small jobs, is repairing his own house.

From the outside, the house (bought in the 1980's) looks luxurious. Inside, floor tiles are missing, the central heating system is broken, and the walls need repainting. It has been on the market for several years, but no one seems interested in buying it.

Melina attends a Jewish school in an affluent neighborhood, where she receives a full scholarship. Jacob attends a public school. "I ride my bicycle except on the coldest days of winter, so my bus expense is very low," says Jacob.

Jacob is a fan of Atlanta, a soccer team linked to old Argentine Jewish neighborhoods. "I regret we don't have cable television anymore. What I care most about though is that we are all still together. My parents always argue now, but I don't worry about it. I know it is because of money," says the teenager who tries to help at home by selling his old school books in a used-books fair and giving Math lessons to other children.

After selling their own furniture, Eduardo and Patricia are also selling books of Psychology and Architecture at the same fair where Jacob goes. "We got 30 pesos (about $10) for a book collection on Architectural structures," recalls Eduardo.

In the past few months, this amount has meant much for a family that has abandoned not only going to the movies, new clothes and cafes, but also buying nourishing food.

"After being registered with JDC's Welfare System, I learned I am not guilty for the circumstances my family is going through. When I approached JDC (in October 2002) I was desperate. Now, I am not: I see many people in the same situation, even people I knew before and would never imagine finding in these conditions. Moreover, I receive 190 pesos each month (about $63) for food and medicines. I am so grateful. This money gives me the necessary calm to think, after I buy modest food to bring home," says Eduardo.