Ciudad del Fútbol Opens Its Doors to the Most Vulnerable Families Displaced by the Wildfires

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has opened the residence at the Ciudad del Fútbol in Las Rozas to families displaced by the wildfires, providing temporary accommodation for some of the most vulnerable evacuees. Among those staying at the facility are an 84-year-old couple, an eight-month-old baby, and a family with two young children, one of whom has autism.

Forced to leave their homes with little more than the clothes they were wearing—and with no certainty as to when they will be able to return—they have been provided with accommodation, meals and every possible comfort while their situation is resolved. The RFEF has also supplied them with Spain national team clothing, as many families had no time to pack before evacuating. During their stay, they were also visited by Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente, who personally offered his support and encouragement.

One of the residents, Carmen, has lived in Robledo de Chavela for 84 years. She recalls that she had time to take only her medication before leaving her home.

"I could see the fire from my balcony, but we were evacuated as a precaution. I managed to grab my medication, but I'm still wearing exactly what I left in. I don't know anything about my house."

Also from Robledo de Chavela is Lucía, the mother of an eight-month-old daughter. She says that, in the rush to evacuate, she only had time to gather her baby's belongings.

"I came with almost nothing, but I made sure she had everything she needed. There aren't enough words to describe how we've been treated. We've felt completely supported, and they're always checking if we need anything."

The Federation also spoke to Toni, from Colmenar del Arroyo, who is accompanying his sister and her children, Karen and Yeray. Yeray has autism, making the transition to an unfamiliar environment especially challenging. His mother says, however, that the family felt at ease from the moment they arrived at the Ciudad del Fútbol.

"From the moment we arrived, everything has been wonderful. They've given us a room, meals and the best possible conditions. We've been looked after every step of the way, and we've wanted for nothing."

Despite the uncertainty and hardship they have endured, the families have not lost hope. Their shared wish is to return home as soon as it is safe to do so and resume their lives in their communities.