100 people take refuge in popular Rome basilica

Group asks pope's help in finding affordable housing

(ANSA) - Rome, June 4 - About 100 people who have been evicted from their homes have taken refuge in Rome's Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and on Wednesday begged for help from Pope Francis.

The men, women and children camping out in one of Rome's popular tourist destinations say they will not leave the basilica, located near the city's main Termini train station, until a housing solution is found. "We are marginalized, poor and outcasts but we know the sacredness of our lives," says the letter to the pope, who often speaks out about the need to care for the less fortunate in the world. "We are here in the house of God to ask for help," says the letter, adding that the Italian government has "declared war" on the homeless.

Loud and large demonstrations in Italy's capital have highlighted concerns about the lack of affordable housing in Rome. Some became violent, vandalizing government offices as they pressed for social housing and fewer austerity measures. "We are afraid for ourselves, and especially for our children," says the letter.