In Bogotá, Colombia, a government initiative known as "manzana del cuidado," or care block, is addressing the issue of unpaid care work predominantly performed by women. Located in a government building in the city's downtown, the program provides services such as childcare, education, and recreational activities for both children and their caregivers.

The care blocks aim to redistribute the burden of unpaid care work, recognizing it as a societal responsibility rather than solely a woman's. Rachel Cohen Booth, a senior policy correspondent for Vox, reported that the initiative seeks to alleviate the time poverty experienced by many women, allowing them opportunities for education, employment, and personal development.

The concept of care blocks originated from the recognition that women disproportionately shoulder the responsibility of childcare, elder care, and household tasks, limiting their economic and social opportunities. This unpaid labor, often invisible in traditional economic metrics, contributes significantly to societal well-being but is rarely acknowledged or supported.

The Bogotá program offers a range of services, including early childhood education, recreational activities for children, and training programs for caregivers. These programs are designed to provide women with time for themselves, whether for pursuing education, seeking employment, or simply engaging in leisure activities.

The initiative has garnered international attention as a potential model for other cities seeking to address gender inequality and promote economic development. The program's success hinges on recognizing the value of unpaid care work and investing in infrastructure and services that support caregivers.

The Bogotá care blocks represent a shift towards a more equitable distribution of care responsibilities, acknowledging the crucial role women play in society and providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive. The program is ongoing, with plans to expand its reach and impact in the coming years.