SVDP France targets Loneliness

John Freund, CM
June 20, 2013

Depaul-homelessFor 10 years, the SSVP has been fighting against loneliness and isolation. This new type of poverty affects all generations and all walks of life. During these times of recession, volunteers convey a message of hope, demonstrating their faith through their willingness to promote to a more humane society.

On June 9 2013 and for the 9th consecutive year, the National Council of France has launched a campaign to combat Loneliness. This campaign is focussed on making the public more aware of and willing to react to this new form of poverty. This campaign forms a part of the follow-up to the 2011 Great National Fight against Loneliness.

Did you know that:

  • 45% of young people state that they experience feelings of loneliness, even if these feelings are only occasionally.
  • This feeling of loneliness is experienced by 4 out of 10 young people.
  • A third of young people claim to be rarely in contact face-to-face with their friends.
  • 95% of young people are connected daily to the Internet and 55% are aware that this tool can lead to loneliness.

SSVP survey, carried out by the Mediaprism agency in 2012

Today loneliness affects all generations!

The elderly, single mothers, farmers, young professionals, isolated students, etc. The people who suffer from loneliness and isolation are more numerous than we imagine. Each year, in the month of June, SSVP volunteers hand out leaflets and posters and organize local events, such as presentations in institutions, parties or open days.

Through these actions, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul collects donations and focuses on three objectives:

  • Provide a new perspective on the situation of people who suffer from loneliness,
  • Make the public aware of the action of SSVP volunteers in their fight against loneliness,
  • Convey a message of hope and a call for a new spirit of solidarity.

55 second videolip of the campaign > click to watch


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