There are *still* a lot of needy and homeless in France, our soooo developped country. We are talking about 10% of the population. As Bono is used to say “Too many”.
I am not used to talk about typical French-oriented topic but I would like to take my hat off to all these volunteers who are supporting and making this French charitable association work so efficiently and humanely. You, mostly as non-French, don’t know it, it is called Les Restos du coeur – Restaurants of the Heart. Its three main goals, as an official non-profit organization, are:
- distribute free food packages and meals to the needy and homeless
- support their economical and social re-integration
- generally speaking, fight against poverty in all its forms
This great association was created in 1985 by Coluche, a famous French humourist and comedian who died in 1986.
Les Restos du Coeur are very professionally and efficiently managed, a lot of retired persons are helping for example, and bringing their huge experience in the association (logistics, IT, admin, etc.). Have a quit look at the figures, it gives you also a first impression about the catastrophic number of people in France who are in need…… For the period 2003/2004 (winter-period):
- 650’000 persons supported
- 66.5 million meals distributed
- 43’000 volunteers
- 467’000 private donors
- 1’900 locations around France
With its very cost-effective structure, the association can invest more than 90% of the donation directly in the different support activities. Great.
As I said at the beginning, respect! If you want to donate (hey it is good for your taxes – just for the French donors), it is here.