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International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

October 2023

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is celebrated on October 17th. The purpose of this day is to remind everyone that we need to take action to combat poverty.

The Resto du Coeur of Belgium have been sadly repeating it for months: poverty is gaining ground. They are constantly welcoming new beneficiaries... But that is not all: beneficiaries are coming more often, those who had stopped have returned, and what also concerns the Resto du Coeur are the new profiles that are emerging. Even more students forced to work to make ends meet, pensioners cannot enjoy their well-earned retirement, single parents with children and workers whose low income can no longer cover all their expenses. Once you've paid the rent, the energy bills and for petrol to get to work, there's nothing left for food. Coping with basic daily expenses has become impossible for some, as the effects of the energy crisis continue to impact their daily lives.

This is a worrying situation that calls for attention. The beneficiaries are being heard only to a limited extent if at all. Government measures are slow in coming, and those that are implemented are not enough to help them. The prospects are not very encouraging therefore.

On this day, Resto du Coeur wish to make the voice of its beneficiaries heard:

  • It's not just other people who “fall into poverty,”
  • “Asking for help" when it's the last resort to feed your family is a difficult decision to make when your income but does not suffice,
  • “Enduring the gratuitous judgmental gaze others” who do not know your situation is hurtful and does not help in the inclusive process.

It is therefore vital to take collective action today to help rebuild the lives of those who live in poverty so that they can fight their way out in a concrete and sustainable manner. Irrespective of the type of assistance provided, everyone can contribute to this great chain of solidarity with the means and resources at their disposal. 

The Resto du Coeur of Belgium are sparing no effort to support their beneficiaries by maintaining the same quality and quantity in terms of food as well services even in these challenging times, because they themselves are financially impacted. Today, they refuse to give up as they continue to help those in need, thanks to exceptional legacies bequeathed to them in 2022. But how long will they be able to continue their work?

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