Les Restos du Coeur is an association founded by the actor and comedian Coluche in 1985. Recognized as a public utility, it provides volunteer assistance to people in need.
In Alpes-Maritimes, there are currently 16 reception and distribution centers, 4 in Nice, and the others throughout the rest of the department, including a mobile one.
There are more than 650 volunteers, led by Joël Meynent, who intervene to help the most disadvantaged individuals.
The volunteers provide an appropriate response to the specific difficulties of families through: unconditional reception, personalized support, food assistance subject to resource conditions, administrative support, personal assistance to facilitate social connection (hairdressing, wardrobe, homework help, French workshops, legal aid, budget advice, micro-credit, housing aid, support in job searching, leisure activities, vacations, culture…).
The activity centers must first and foremost prioritize assistance to people in all forms before distributing food aid. Welcoming, Meeting, Listening, Exchanging, Accompanying, even if the people received do not have access to food aid, and seeking common solutions for social inclusion.
The figures (winter campaign December 2016 – March 2017):
Volunteers 655
People received 10,898 plus 371 children (under 12 years old)
Meals distributed in the previous winter campaign: 616,500
The winter campaign 2017-2018 lasts 16 weeks: it begins today until mid-March.
