Mustapha Abouabderrahmane is the owner of the Torino Pasta restaurant, at 48, rue du Jard in Mérignac. In mid-January when temperatures are dropping, he decided to set up, with the support of the town hall, a reception system for the homeless during the period of extreme cold.
” Monday [13 janvier] In the evening, I saw Frédéric, a homeless man, trying to sleep wrapped in his sleeping bag in front of the restaurant when it was starting to get very cold, says the manager. He's used to being there, I know him a little, so I offered to let him sleep in the restaurant for the night. I thought about it and on Tuesday morning I went to the town hall to ask if I could have barnums. I met Claudine Lartigau, from the sales department, who was very responsive. During the day, the City installed three sheds on my terrace, with camp beds and auxiliary heaters which are connected to my electric meter. And this Wednesday evening, there are a dozen people, including a couple whose lady is pregnant, who will come to spend the night here. I have the support of several merchants, including the wholesaler Métro, and I will prepare a hot meal for this evening and breakfast for tomorrow morning. I will do it as soon as there are people present. »
“A very human place”
Word of mouth, raids and various associations communicated about this welcome, and this is how several homeless people will be able to sleep warm. The installation is in place for the duration of the very cold period. Homeless people can, if they wish, stay all day.
“We eat very well here and we are well received,” confides Frédéric, who stayed at the restaurant to lend a hand in thanks for the welcome. “I want to be useful and it makes me feel good to keep myself busy. This emergency reception is a very humane place where there is no risk. And since there are three tents, we can separate women and men, which is very good for everyone. »
Furthermore, the City of Mérignac has set up a nighttime reception system for the homeless at the Paul-Langevin gymnasium, until at least Sunday January 19.
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