Every year, Secours populaire du Centre-Val de Loire takes the children of beneficiaries to visit a cultural place in the region. After Clos Lucé d'Amboise, it is the turn of the city of Blois to host the “Green Santa Claus” operation this Monday, December 23.
Two hundred and twenty children from Loiret, Indre, Indre-et-Loire, Cher and Loir-et-Cher came, accompanied by 80 volunteers to visit the royal castle of Blois and the House of Magic. “It allows children to have a festive day with a cultural outing before Christmas”explains Mireille Tourte, general secretary of Secours populaire in Loir-et-Cher.
“A festive day with a cultural outing”
Among the volunteers, some are among the beneficiaries of the association. Everyone was trained with a castle mediator to take a guided and interactive tour with the children. They are invited to answer questions through a questionnaire that they complete throughout their visit: “Which animal was used to make kings’ cloaks? asks a volunteer. The fox or the ermine? »
Two hundred and twenty children from across the region benefit from this operation.
© Photo NR, Jérôme Dutac
The guides encourage the children to observe the rooms of the castle in every nook and cranny, including the ceiling. By only touching with the eyes, of course. The architecture of the ceremonial staircase of the François I wingis impresses more than one. “It’s so beautiful”whispers a young girl.
A meal within the castle grounds
After the visit, children and volunteers are invited to a meal prepared by Michel Mothmora in the castle grounds, Lesueur room. On the menu: a vegetarian meal composed of dauphine potatoes, vegetable acras and chocolate mousse.
“The castle’s kitchen is very well equippedunderlines Michel Mothmora. It's been a long time since I've had this many meals but it's done without too much difficulty. » The former world boxing champion puts his catering activity at the service of Secours populaire, where he was inducted as “godfather of sport” in May 2024.
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