Colombian Mother of 20 Describes Motherhood as a ‘Profitable’ Venture
A Colombian mother who recently welcomed her 20th child claims she has turned motherhood into a “profitable” endeavor. Relying heavily on community support and government aid, she plans to continue expanding her family as long as her body allows.
Life in Martha’s household is far from easy. The 40-year-old lives in a modest three-bedroom home in Medellín, Colombia, where her children share cramped living spaces. The eldest child often occupies the couch due to limited space. Reports suggest that the monthly expenses for a family of four are approximately $2,200 USD. Given the size of her family, Martha estimates she needs around $11,000 each month to cover basic living costs, not including additional expenses.
In an interview with The Sun, Martha openly discussed the difficulties she faces, acknowledging that she sometimes “struggles to provide enough meals for everyone on a limited budget.” Despite these financial challenges, she finds motivation in the support she receives from the government, which encourages her to keep expanding her family. “The reality is, the government provides assistance for each child, and I receive a small amount for each one,” she told the Daily Mail in January 2024, while still expecting her 20th child. Martha explained that her older children contribute about $76 each, while the younger ones bring in approximately $30.50.
Overall, the government support amounts to less than $600 USD per month. “I see motherhood as a kind of business,” Martha stated, adding that as her older children leave home, she feels compelled to have more children to qualify for additional financial assistance.
She also receives help from her local church and neighbors, as the fathers of her children are absent and, in her words, “irresponsible.” Martha admitted she is unaware of the identities of some of her children’s fathers.
Expressing her unconventional approach, Martha declared her intention to keep having children “until my body can no longer handle it.” Her perspective on motherhood has sparked widespread discussion and debate.
