The Latin American House Inc. (LAH) was created in 1995 as a
non-government and non-profit organization to provide financial support
and solidarity to human rights organizations in Latin America.
Fundraising was undertaken for such causes as care and education for
disadvantaged socio-economic children in the Mapuche communities in
Chile; building and maintenance repairs in nursing homes in Cuba;
health, housing and nutritional support to aged ex-political prisoners
in Uruguay. Casa Latinoamericana also supports other fundraising
events in response to natural disasters in Latin America such as the
recent earthquakes in Haiti and Chile.
Casa Latinoamericana also provides an important and vibrant meeting
place for the Latin community in Sydney. It provides a space for
cultural events such as music and dance workshops, free Spanish lessons
and film screenings.
Casa Latinoamericana suffered a blow in October 2009 when the building
was completely destroyed by fire. Funds from SLAFF will be directed
toward the acquisition of essential equipment for the new building.