30 Aug 2024 Covid-19 : The Social and Educational Grocery supported by Break Poverty Foundation is mobilizing

In the context of the lockdown imposed on March 16, those in the greatest need often face increased difficulties. In response to this situation, the Social and Educational Grocery in Romans-sur-Isère continues its activities to assist them. Confronted with the pandemic and necessary lockdown measures, the Social Grocery supported by Break Poverty has managed to remain open. It provides ‘essential’ food support to the nation, especially crucial for the vulnerable families it serves, who are particularly affected by the health crisis.

Balancing food distribution and health protection

The organization has reorganized its operations and services accordingly. It manages to balance ongoing food distribution activities with the necessary health protection for its clients and volunteers.

Currently, both individual project follow-ups and direct sales are secondary objectives. In contrast, distributing baskets of dry products (oils, flour, sugar, prepared meals) is the priority. The number of volunteers is insufficient to guarantee the supply and distribution of fresh products. One employee and two volunteers remain on site to distribute the baskets while avoiding contact. The present volunteers have not been equipped with masks, but everyone adheres to distancing and sanitation guidelines, confirmed Jean-Yves Polo d’Ambrosio, co-president of the Grocery.

A real concern about the temporary closure of key associations

Contacted by phone, Catherine Pokos, in charge of supply, also expressed concern about the halt in activities of certain associations. The temporarily announced closures of Restos du Cœur, Oasis, and Secours Catholique could worsen the fragile situation of some modest families.

These closures are particularly worrying as many of these families can no longer rely on school meals at midday. They thus need increased food support. Consequently, the Grocery has decided to assist, beyond its registered clients, any families in extreme hardship who come to its premises.

The Grocery welcomed with great relief the government’s launch of the ‘Réserve Civique’ platform. It invites Romans residents under 70 to visit it to support associations in need of volunteers.

The entire Break Poverty team is, now more than ever, very proud to support this association. A big thank you to all the donors who provide their support for this program. The needs are immense, and your help is invaluable.

To learn more about the Social Grocery supported by Break Poverty, click here.