The problem of homelessness, as in most big cities, is not foreign to the streets of Buenos Aires. On man, however, has changed the face of people who are homeless for the people of Buenos Aires. Alejandro ‘Pechito’ Ferreiro was not your average guy who lives on the street. Pechito, 40 years old, lived at the entrance of Banco Frances on Scalabrini Ortiz and Santa Fe in Palermo for twelve years. On the sidewalk, Pechito resided with a fully functioning cable tv, comfortable mattress, his two dogs, radio, lounge chair, and recently a karaoke machine. He also decorated the wall around his mattress with various pictures and posters. Pechito cleaned the sidewalk around his area each morning and was often found smoking while watching television, or listening to the radio. He also burned incense almost every day to keep his area smelling nice for pedestrians.
Every so often, Pechito assisted people with paperwork who were short on time at the bank. At one time, he was a construction worker, but lost his job and apartment due to drug addiction. However, once he was homeless, Pechito says he stopped taking drugs. Pechito died of a lung infection in Hospital Rivadavia. Pechito was ill for months prior to his death, however he refused to go to a homeless shelter or hospital, because he could not bare to leave his dogs. People have taken both of his dogs into safe homes since his death.
Pechito was a beloved neighbor to those who lived and worked near his corner on Scalabrini Ortiz, only blocks from the Mente Argentina office. It is said, that he once saved money and bought a young girl who lived nearby a bike. It is evident from the cards and vast amount of flowers that he was loved by a large number of people. A symbolic funeral was held by his mattress, as well. Pechito is missed by many in BA, but he lives on as a legend. His generousity and kindness set a president in Palermo. Even though he had very little, Pechito made the most of his surroundings and assisted others in need. He did not take anything for granted. We can all learn a little bit from Pechito and his love for life each day. He is held dear in the hearts of the people of Palermo.
