“It’s not easy every day during the holidays”: At the table of the Little Brothers of the Poor to break the loneliness at Christmas

At the table of the Lac à Soues restaurant this Friday, it's a bit like Christmas before its time. Snail puff pastry, Tarbes bean velouté, shredded duck breast and log for dessert. The menu is sure to make guests salivate. Among them, a long table enjoys the moment at its true value. The association of Little Brothers of the Poor of Tarbes brought together no less than 15 supported people as well as 12 volunteers. “Our structure fights against the isolation of elderly people thanks to volunteers and a paid coordinator,” explains Yvette, the manager with Jean-Claude. “We either visit people who are reported by the CCAS, social workers or families, at their home, or we meet up for shared times, snacks, meetings, etc. After each report, we meet the people to assess whether they are suffering from loneliness and we think collectively about how to support them.”

“As I no longer have any family, no one…”

This Friday, it's time for the holidays, a period when “loneliness is more difficult, according to Yvette. It's a sensitive and critical moment. Some people don't come because it reminds them of memories and revives family moments including they did not mourn. Those who were unable to come to the meal, for which the volunteers took care of picking up the guests from their homes, will receive a gift and a visit from a member of the association. between now and Christmas The restaurant plays the game, with. an attractive price.”

A sacred union to break the isolation experienced by the participants. “It’s very good, there is an atmosphere for young people like me,” smiles Jean, 88 years old. “It’s good for our morale, we eat very well. In this period, it’s not easy every day. days…” A little further on Janine, who lives in an apartment in the heart of Tarbes, concedes: “Where I live, no one looks at you It's dead as I no longer have a family… When I am. I had vertebrae operated on, I I left the door of my home open. No one came to see me or ask for news, whereas I have always been around others… So, yes today, it's good to taste the spirit of the people. holidays.” Yvette, the manager, confides that he sometimes has “painful life stories. We listen to everyone and we try to remember the happy days…”

Cross paths to get to know each other

Joy can be seen on Amélie’s face, all smiles. “It’s warm,” she rejoices. “When you don’t have family, you’re happy to have volunteers like Marie-Jeanne. It warms your heart,” admits this Tarbes retiree from Dordogne. Knowing that we're not alone for the holidays, that feels good, especially when you can't count on others or your loved ones… And then, as someone who likes to eat well, I had a great time.” A delicious moment of sharing for all the guests who have promised to meet again in 2025. “By crossing paths, these lonely people begin to know each other,” says Yvette, the head of the Little Brothers of the Poor who aim to organize stays at the sea and various activities for which all goodwill is welcome.