On Wednesday, June 28, a solidarity restaurant for seniors was inaugurated in Nice, in the presence of the mayor, Christian Estrosi. This initiative aims to address the challenges faced by the elderly population of the city, particularly those related to isolation and precariousness.
In the current economic context characterized by inflation and a growing sense of precariousness, a significant portion of the senior population in Nice—about 30%—is facing the effects of these issues. With the increasing cost of living, seniors have experienced a noticeable decline in their purchasing power. In fact, the price of a basic grocery basket at supermarkets has risen considerably, by 20% to 30%.
To address these concerns and proactively support the well-being of seniors, the city of Nice, in collaboration with its Communal Center for Social Action (CCAS), has implemented a series of vigilance and prevention measures. As part of these efforts, a unanimous decision was made during the Municipal Council meeting on June 14, 2023, to create a solidarity restaurant specifically for seniors who are non-taxable or isolated. The city aspires to be recognized as an “Age-Friendly City” with the potential to receive the label by the end of 2023.
Named “Alegria,” this first solidarity restaurant for seniors offers a meal for 3€ until the end of August. From Monday to Friday, this solidarity restaurant welcomes 50 guests, with daily activities promoting social connection. In the future, if necessary, two services could be offered each day throughout the summer (at 11:15 am and 12:45 pm). The meals are prepared and delivered by the Central Kitchen, which already produces 28,000 meals daily throughout the year.
The 3€ price per meal for seniors aims to improve their quality of life and combat the precariousness they face. It is noteworthy that Nice positions itself as the first community to offer such a competitive rate, unlike Toulouse, where the price of a meal is around 3.40/3.50€. To finance this initiative, Malakoff Humanis commits to contributing 2€ per meal, while the cost for the community is 9.25€ per meal. The total cost of the project amounts to nearly 50,000€, covering meals, activities, logistics, and the involvement of students throughout the summer to ensure service and kindly accompany seniors, thus fostering intergenerational connections.
“I think it’s an excellent initiative because it’s true that we are very isolated. […] I haven’t been able to afford to go to a restaurant for a very long time, so it can only be a good thing!” — Restaurant participant
All seniors listed in the register of isolated and non-taxable persons receive an invitation by mail. This confidential register includes people aged 65 and over, adults with disabilities, as well as those aged 60 recognized as unfit or invalid. To date, 2,535 people are registered. To share this moment of conviviality, prior registration with the municipal office is necessary.
