Until April 5, 2024, the 17 AnimaNice centers are rallying in support of the Alpes-Maritimes Food Bank for a collection event under the theme of art and culture. Mado la Niçoise lends her voice as the patron of the organization.
“We have only one wish, which is to one day become unnecessary,” enthuses Philippe Pradal, one of the founders of the Alpes-Maritimes Food Bank. But for now, the organization is back again this year for a month (from March 5 to April 5), with the assistance of the AnimaNice centers in the city. And for the second consecutive year, it is Noëlle Perna who embodies, not Mado la Niçoise, but the role of patron of the Food Bank.
“Noëlle Perna brings her image and her notoriety for the benefit of this noble cause,” explains Jean-Luc Gagliolo, deputy delegate for Education, Culture at school, Books, the Fight against illiteracy, Niçoise Identity, and Leisure for all. Contacted by a childhood friend who became a volunteer for the Food Bank, Noëlle Perna did not hesitate. “I immediately understood the dimension of the work being done. The importance and necessity of the project,” the actress adds. Last year, the organization collected 1.5 tons of food products, which amounts to more than 3,000 meals.
Art and culture at the service of solidarity
Since 2016, the AnimaNice centers have been organizing workshops and performances in exchange for four food products per person. “The mission of art is really to open people’s hearts. It’s also to unite people and to raise awareness that we are all connected,” says Noëlle Perna. And during this month of collection, access to culture and art is made easier. With shows for all ages, dance performances, and art workshops, there’s something for everyone.
And it is with the diversity of actions offered that the Food Bank hopes to collect up to 2.5 tons this year. “It’s a way for all those with a bit of heart to access culture. Simply with a generous gesture. Uniting the mind and the heart has never hurt anyone,” concludes Jean-Luc Gagliolo.
