This work begins with the first meeting: "We address a fundamental need—feeding oneself. It is essential that this welcome is respectful, confidential, and reassuring for the person concerned" explains Géraldine, a social worker at the Resto du Cœur in Mons. At the Resto du Cœur in Mouscron, Margaux always approaches each beneficiary with a simple but foundational question: “How are you?”
One of the unique aspects of the Restos du Cœur in Belgium is the consistency of interaction—a weekly connection with beneficiaries. "Even if they’re not here for a formal meeting, we still cross paths," explains Géraldine. This proximity makes it possible provide sustained support and to take swift action.
The daily duties of social workers are varied:
- Reading and explaining official correspondence,
- Making phone calls and drafting emails,
- Assistance with completing paperwork,
- Budget analysis and directing individuals to financial aid services (CPAS [Public Welfare Agency], health insurance, Forem [public employment and training service], etc.)
- First-line psychological support,
- Emergency actions or reporting alarming situations.
The beneficiaries of the Restos du Cœur defy stereotypes. "We welcome a microcosm of society—people aged 18 to 85, with or without qualifications, of Belgian, EU or non-EU nationality, " says Margaux. Géraldine adds: "Many had stable lives before. A separation, an accident, bankruptcy… and suddenly everything changes."
The rise in working poor, isolated elderly people, and young individuals in crisis is particularly striking. Challenges often overlap—housing, mental health, debt, isolation, complex migration journeys, domestic violence...
In Belgium, social workers collaborate with a broad network: CPAS [Public Welfare Agency], medical centres, accredited debt mediators, mental health centres, ONE... Yet they often work alone within their centres. "There are just two of us on staff for 70 volunteers. Without them, we would not be able to operate," Géraldine acknowledges.
This solidarity-based model is effective but raises concerns. "If the volunteers weren’t here, who would take over? An entire segment of social support depends on them."
Greater support could be provided, but there is a shortage of human, material, and financial resources. "We are dreaming of a facility for mother-child workshops, legal clinics, or group activities. But we lack both the space and the funding," Géraldine explains.
Far from being just a supplement to food aid, the work of social workers is a vital extension thereof. Their support helps articulate situations that are sometimes unspoken or misunderstood. "No one is immune. Anyone could find him- or herself needing to step through the doors of an organisation like ours," Géraldine reminds us.
