Geneva and Lausanne, 28 November 2023 – A spirit of mutual aid, punctuated by gestures of solidarity, reigned in the shops this weekend. Vendredi et samedi derniers, une grande campagne a eu lieu dans les cantons de Vaud et de Genève pour soutenir les personnes en situation de précarité. The action, carried out by volunteers, resulted in the collection of almost 268 tonnes of goods in the cantons of Vaud and Geneva (almost 198 tonnes in Geneva and 70 tonnes in Vaud).
The Samedi du partage operation was a success, which delighted the organisers. The commitment of the volunteers and the generosity of the customers testify to a solidarity that has not wavered, even in the face of a difficult economic climate.
In the canton of Vaud, the public rallied to collect a total of 70 tonnes, and in the canton of Geneva, almost 198 tonnes of essential goods were collected. This represents a total increase of 8.5% on the November 2022 event – a success made possible by the support of donors, who are warmly thanked by the Samedi du partage Associations.
Samedi du partage is particularly grateful for the invaluable commitment of the 1,865 volunteers (1,350 in Geneva and 515 in Vaud), who gave tirelessly of their energy, and thanks to whom the success of this operation was assured. Their thanks also go to the chains, their teams and all the partners who make this fund-raising campaign possible.
What happens after the harvest ? All the products are currently being sent to the food banks in the various regions, where they will be sorted and redistributed over the coming months, fairly and according to need, to associations and social services on the ground, to help people in precarious situations.
The next edition of Samedi du partage is scheduled for 31 May and 1 June 2024.
Photo credit: Vidya Vanniasingam
