Starting from 2025, the government of Mexico City will implement the "Pensión Hombres Bienestar," targeting men aged between 60 and 64 years. This initiative, confirmed through the Gaceta Oficial de la CDMX, aims to provide financial assistance to those previously excluded from similar programs, ensuring support reaches one of the city's more vulnerable populations.
The initiative has already kicked off with the distribution of the first 20,000 benefit cards awarded to men who meet the program's criteria. This rollout is overseen by Clara Brugada, the head of the Mexico City government, who emphasized the importance of men being included alongside women’s programs. At the card distribution event held at the Zócalo, Brugada stated, "Here we say no to machismo and yes to solidarity, to joint work, and to equality between men and women. Thanks to you, the men of Mexico City, today we can be at the forefront of women governing the city and the country. So, long live the men of Mexico City!"
The "Pensión Hombres Bienestar" is set to offer financial aid totaling 18,000 pesos annually, distributed as six bimonthly payments of 3,000 pesos. Initially, the program will benefit approximately 77,000 men aged 63 to 64 years and will gradually expand to include additional age groups. This initiative reflects the city's unique approach to social supporting systems, aiming to alleviate economic difficulties faced by older men who often struggle to find work or suffer from reduced income.
Araceli Damián González, the Secretary of Inclusion and Social Welfare, highlighted the need for this initiative. She pointed out the difficulties older men face when dealing with unemployment or insufficient income to provide for their families. "This program attempts to support you, akin to what older adults aged 65 and older already receive," she stated.
Eligibility for this pension includes several criteria: prospective beneficiaries must be residents of Mexico City, must have reached the age of 63 at the time of application but not exceed 64 years and 10 months, and must express their interest to receive the assistance provided. Essential documents required for registration include valid photo identification, proof of residence no older than three months, and, if necessary, birth certificates or CURP documentation if these details are not clearly readable.
"It’s worth noting," Brugada noted, "that each state has the autonomy to design its own social support programs based on local needs." This autonomy facilitates direct responses to demographic shifts and ensures resources are allocated effectively, which is especially important as the number of men eligible for the Pensión Hombres Bienestar is projected to be significant—218,221 as per the latest estimates from CONAPO for 2024.
The implementation of the Pensión Hombres Bienestar has sparked discussions on gender equality and social responsibility. Critics have argued the necessity of such targeted programs, questioning why men should receive specific assistance exclusive of women’s programs. Advocates, on the other hand, claim it recognizes the broader spectrum of needs faced by older males, aligning with the equal opportunities ethos promoted by Brugada’s administration.
Further information about enrollment dates and additional support programs will be communicated through the official channels of the Mexico City government. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed via the social media platforms and official websites maintained by the Ciudad de México and the Secretaría del Bienestar e Inclusión Social (SEBIEN).
To facilitate applicants, the program also includes supplementary services such as health access, physical activation programs, free will processing, job offers, and entrepreneurial loans from the Social Development Fund (FONDESO). These integrated services highlight the city’s intention to create holistic support systems aimed at fostering greater economic wellbeing among older citizens.
With the rollout of this groundbreaking program, the Mexico City government not only aims to address immediate financial needs but also to lay the foundational groundwork for the long-term economic stability of its older male population. This program exemplifies how localized governance can cater to specific needs, reminding us of the importance of social welfare initiatives to uphold the dignity of all citizens regardless of gender.