The unexpected fame of Merlin the Duck during the 2026 World Cup brought more than just extra income and job opportunities for his family\u2014it also opened the door to a place they can finally call home. <\/p>\n
On July 10, 2026, Karla G\u00f3mez, the owner of the now-famous duck, shared her gratitude during Mexico City\u2019s daily presidential briefing, known as La Ma\u00f1anera. She revealed that until recently, her family lived in a commercial space at the corner of V\u00e9rtiz and Arcos de Bel\u00e9n. \u201cWe never said this before out of fear that the Delegation might take it away from us. We always said we lived in a house, but that wasn\u2019t true,\u201d she admitted. <\/p>\n
Her honesty sparked criticism online, with some accusing her of admitting to breaking the law and others suggesting the family\u2019s appearance at the press conference was a form of compensation. <\/p>\n
However, the story behind their new home is rooted in a government housing program. Karla explained that she was able to acquire the house through a credit plan offered by Mexico City\u2019s Institute of Housing (INVI), with direct support from President Claudia Sheinbaum and Mexico City\u2019s Head of Government, Clara Brugada. <\/p>\n
Karla recounted the moment Sheinbaum personally reached out to her: \u201cOne day, God put her in my path. She asked if I needed anything. I showed her pictures of where we lived, where we bathed, and more. She told me she could help\u2014and she really did.\u201d <\/p>\n
Sheinbaum confirmed that she approached Karla after the family appeared with Merlin the Duck at La Ma\u00f1anera, then coordinated with Clara Brugada to facilitate the housing support. Thanks to this intervention, the G\u00f3mez family secured their home through INVI\u2019s credit program. <\/p>\n
This story highlights how public visibility combined with proactive government programs can transform lives\u2014offering not just shelter but dignity and stability to families who have long been overlooked. For many migrants and young people navigating Mexico City\u2019s housing challenges, such initiatives represent a hopeful path forward.<\/p>\n