In few words
In a time of crisis and partial activity, our talents continue to put their talent to work beyond the company walls. Just like Clément, volunteering with Les Restos du Cœur. And we wholeheartedly encourage them to grow that way!
“I’ve been volunteering with Les Restos du Cœur since 2011… 10 years already!”
When I was younger, I had big ideals and very humanist speeches. Like many others, I dreamed of a better world—one where no one would be forgotten, abandoned to their fate, without help or a listening ear. (Let’s be honest: I was nurturing a few illusions.)
Later, around 25, I realized that all those beautiful words meant very little if they weren’t backed by concrete action. Talking is good. Acting is better!
So I chose Les Restos du Cœur.
Founded in 1985 by Coluche, it’s one of the most well-known charities in France today. Almost everyone has heard of it—if only through the famous Enfoirés concerts. I was also lucky enough to know a site manager at Les Restos du Cœur, who kindly welcomed me into the team after one or two visits.
I volunteer every Monday evening at the Paris site in Denfert-Rochereau. We distribute complete meals—hot dishes, salads, yogurts, fruit, bread—as well as soup and coffee or tea to people who can’t meet their basic needs on their own.
For the past three years, I’ve been the distribution manager. My role mainly involves coordinating a team of around thirty volunteers to ensure distributions run as smoothly as possible—for both the people we welcome and the volunteers themselves (rain, wind, or snow—yes, really!).
Adapting in times of crisis
Since the beginning of the crisis, all associations supporting the most vulnerable were authorized—thankfully—to continue their activities. But we had to adapt.
For many of the people we welcome, coming to Les Restos du Cœur isn’t just about food. It’s about human connection—with each other and with the volunteers. Many are extremely isolated. Sometimes, we are their last remaining link to “society.”
COVID-19 partially took away that human warmth, that friendly atmosphere, those simple conversations.
Until March 2020, people ate on site as best they could—on a bench, a sidewalk, a makeshift table. Contacts were frequent. We took time during, and especially after, distributions to chat, joke, talk about football, talk about them.
Today, volunteers no longer hand out food directly. We prepare meal bags that are picked up at a fixed point, with minimal contact, asking everyone to leave the site as soon as they receive their bag. We lost some human warmth…
But we’ll get it back!
Team spirit, always
Every week, I genuinely enjoy meeting the team again. Whatever mood we’re in, we never forget to laugh, to joke around (that’s my specialty), while working together for a cause that truly matters to us.
And once the crisis is over, we’ll absolutely go back to having drinks together at the pub after the effort!
How to help
Today, the need for volunteers is fortunately limited. More than ever, many people have time to dedicate to associations (thanks—or no thanks—to the crisis!).
The real need, as always, is financial: purchasing food, equipment, and supplies.
So don’t hesitate to make a donation!
👉 https://www.restosducoeur.org/