Gifts, festive meals and moments of sharing: in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, this December 25, the association “Les Petits Frères des Pauvres” mobilized its forces to offer a moment of comfort to isolated elderly people. A first local action marked by strong emotions.
“I feel less alone today. It makes me want to smile” confides Rachel, one of the beneficiaries. This Christmas, five residents of an EHPAD and five people living at home received visits and gifts thanks to the association, established in Guyana since September.
From the start of this special day, each beneficiary received a gift, a simple gesture but full of symbols. The meal that followed, a traditional Creole menu, brought extra warmth and conviviality.
The joy of living could be seen on the faces of the residents when they received their gifts
reports Nathalie Kamano, active member of the association.
Created after the Second World War, “The Little Brothers of the Poor” have the mission to fight against the isolation of seniors, by offering them not only material assistance, but above all human warmth.
We're not just here for Christmas. We support them all year round, particularly in remote areas.
explains Nadège Jean-Louis active member of the association
For this first action, the gifts and meals were financed by the national headquarters.
It's a start, but we know that there are many more isolated people to identify and support
alert Nathalie Kamano.
The beneficiaries of this mobilization expressed their gratitude.
The greatest gift is their presence
says Mr. Lemorin, resident of the EHPAD. With this first successful action, the association hopes to raise awareness among new volunteers to perpetuate its action in Guyana.