This December is somewhat paradoxical. While the majority of the people in Nice are preparing to celebrate Christmas warmly with family, the other minority is anxious about facing an even more difficult winter than the previous ones. In Nice, 8,000 people are in this situation. All of them are in need. The launch of the aid campaign by the Restos du Cœur is one of the solutions to this phenomenon (December 3 – March 8). To tackle this state of poverty, the Restos du Cœur take action. They help this vulnerable population, restore their confidence, and most importantly, provide human warmth. Various actions are particularly carried out during periods of extreme cold and also throughout the rest of the year. Mr. Wancier, the department head of the Restos du Cœur, explains the assistance provided to these families. The various branches in Nice “provide help in terms of food, social, and administrative support, in order to make these families autonomous. Many of them can neither read nor write.” This phenomenon of poverty is concerning as, according to a study provided by the Restos du Cœur, 5% of those helped have a job. “The notion of the working poor” is a real one for Mr. Wancier. He sees entire families coming twice a week. This year, the number of registered individuals has increased by 3 to 5%. In summer, attendance is around 4,000 people, but the cold and harshness of winter doubles these numbers.
### There are reasons for satisfaction.
The fight does not seem to be in vain. On the contrary, “it bears fruit as about one in two does not return the following year.” This is a reason for satisfaction for the thousands of volunteers in direct contact with the disadvantaged. This solidarity, support, and helping hand are very useful to the population. Over the past few years, new services have emerged alongside food aid. There are notably the “babies of the heart,” a roof for everyone… various structures providing warmth and comfort.
Significant comfort but oh so fragile. The problem is that it mainly relies on donations. The generosity of donors is commendable, as is that of local politicians who provide crucial aid. Their degree of involvement varies, ranging from financial contributions to food or other forms of support. Sometimes premises are even made available to the associations on a voluntary basis. To raise public awareness, impactful actions are planned. Locally, a solidarity race is going to be organized on February 10. The “sunshine” race is a marathon starting from Nice to Monaco, along which a collection is organized.
Coluche and his band of “bastards” often remind us, but today more than ever:
“We are counting on you.”
