Tenerife Couple’s Refusal of Housing Highlights Gaps in Social Care System

An elderly couple living on the streets of the Rambla de Santa Cruz de Tenerife has highlighted a significant gap in the social care system. Despite having financial means and owning a home in the south of the island, the couple has chosen to sleep on the street between Plaza de la Paz and Calle Ramón y Cajal for the past three months.

Their presence has caused friction in the neighborhood, as they have occupied public spaces with personal belongings and waste. Reynaldo González, spokesperson for the local neighborhood association, has criticized the lack of official action, noting that the situation has become a public health concern near a children’s playground and has led to complaints about inappropriate behavior.

The Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council acknowledges the unusual nature of the case. Officials explain that because the couple is not registered as residents of the capital, they do not qualify for a spot at the municipal shelter. However, the city’s Mobile Outreach Unit has repeatedly offered the couple alternative housing, including guesthouses and shelter beds. The couple has consistently refused these offers, insisting on staying in the capital without explaining why.

This situation reveals the limitations of standard social services when individuals remain financially independent but display behavior that may require a mental health evaluation. The ongoing case highlights an urgent need for better coordination between municipal social services and regional mental health authorities. Experts suggest that a professional assessment is necessary to determine if an underlying health issue is influencing the couple's choices, which would help protect both the dignity of the individuals and the well-being of the local community.