If the Restos du coeur association intends to return to “a more normal level of functioning” this year, 110,000 applicants had to be refused.
“We could close within three years.” These alarming words were those of the president of the Restos du coeur association Patrice Douret, in 2023. At that time, the situation was dramatic, forcing those responsible to reduce the number of beneficiaries. Thanks to several drastic restrictions, if “the situation is not saved yet”, as indicated by the spokesperson for the association, Yves Mérillon this Friday, September 27 at the microphone of France Inter, the Restos du coeur should be able to return to “a more normal level of functioning” this year.
70% of beneficiaries earn less than 600 euros per month
To redress the situation, last year, the association had to refuse 110,000 applicants. In addition, the weekly food allocation has been reduced by three.“These forced savings reduction measures plus the call for generosity allowed us not to stop our operations in the middle of winter as was threatening us, and that is important,” rejoices Yves Mérillon on France Inter.
Be careful, nothing is gained regarding the sustainability of the association. “There are still so many people coming to our doors. Last year we welcomed 1.3 million people,” specifies the spokesperson for the association, interviewed by our colleagues from France Inter. Unfortunately, 70% of those welcomed earn less than half of the poverty line, or less than 600 euros per month. So, if demand does not fall, and the Restos du coeur are now forced to refuse applicants in need, it is also for the good of another type of population, particularly affected by precariousness.
A considerable effort for the 126,000 babies aged 0 to 3 years
“We have regained some room for maneuver, which allows us today to give ourselves priorities such as those for early childhood to try to provide a little more help,” explains Yves Mérillon. Help which will be welcome because today, 10% of the beneficiaries of Restos du coeur are babies aged 0 to 3 years, or 126,000 people welcomed. A “particular effort” was therefore made, particularly “in terms of food aid and hygiene”, he specifies.
This support is all the more important due to the level of precariousness of the families in which these babies grow up. “It’s important for their development, their future health,” adds the association’s spokesperson. This is why Restos du coeur also launched a donation campaign thanks to its web radio this weekend. An initiative which will be widely relayed by certain star presenters such as Bruno Guillon (Fun Radio), Fred Musa (Skyrock), Bruce Toussaint (TF1) and Karine Le Marchand (M6). They will raise awareness and call for donations on air to finance as many “baby kits” as possible.