Revista Poesias e Cartas
Report published on January 6, 2026, at 3:55 p.m. (Brasília time).
The last days of December 2025 were marked by a profound sense of gratitude and unity.
For the fourth consecutive year, the group Ação Vegana Solidária carried out donations in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. The activities were concentrated in the central region, at Praça Ruy Barbosa (Praça da Estação), a space where many people experiencing homelessness find refuge. Amid the intense heat of the capital, the fountain that flows in the square becomes not only a relief but also an alternative for those who lack housing, guaranteed food, and other essential resources for life.
Holistic therapist and writer Jacilene Arruda was present and spoke with several people in vulnerable situations. She listened to accounts of dreams, goals, desires, anxieties, and anguish, as well as stories of past experiences and talents that often remain invisible in the daily life of a city with an estimated population of 2,415,872 inhabitants, according to data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). It is worth noting that this number does not include the homeless population: according to municipal surveys and studies by the Ministry of Citizenship, it is estimated that between 8,000 and 10,000 people live on the streets of Belo Horizonte. Jacilene distributed books, captured moments of joy in authorized photos, and shared genuine smiles.
On this day, we experienced the true meaning of Christmas: the meaning of humanity. Vegan food, water, juices, gifts, clothes, personal hygiene items, books, and even prayers for those who asked were offered.
Social Work student at the Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP), Lydia Rubinete, also participated, reinforcing her important role in society through her effective involvement in events of this nature. Her presence highlighted the commitment to sustainability and the strengthening of community bonds.
As a lecturer and educator, Jacilene Arruda feels motivated to continue her projects in universities, communities, and other social spaces. Lydia Rubinete’s participation in this event reinforces the importance of integrating education, solidarity, and sustainability.
It is worth remembering that, in October 2025, Jacilene gave a lecture during the Integration Week at the Federal University of Ouro Preto. The previous month, on September 26, she launched her book “Do Not Drink from the Waters of Those Who Pretend to Quench Your Thirst”, which addresses the relationship between veganism and the environment, highlighting it as an alternative to facing climate catastrophes — the central theme of the work.
Ação Vegana Solidária takes place annually at strategic points in Belo Horizonte. Activist Glener Costa, in partnership with Quintal Vegan, plays a fundamental role in spreading vegan seeds in a society facing times of climate emergency.
This initiative was only possible thanks to voluntary donations of food, clothing, hygiene items, and financial contributions via PIX, as well as the engagement of people committed to the vegan social project, which enabled another year of solidarity and hope.
More than an action, it was a collective gesture that reaffirms that social transformation begins with empathy and care for others.
Check out the best snapshots of Ação Vegana Solidária 2025, held in Belo Horizonte, and be inspired by gestures of solidarity and hope.
