The intercommunal Croix-Rouge, discreet but so useful!
There is no need to introduce the Croix-Rouge, whether French or international.
In the spirit of its founder Henry Dunant in 1864, the Croix-Rouge provides relief on battlefields, during major disasters, and even in villages, by distributing humanitarian aid in coordination with social services. Thus, the Swiss flag with reversed colors flies over all the world's miseries and brings aid to the most disadvantaged, at the other end of the world and close to home.
SOCIAL SERVICE This is the case for the intercommunal Croix Rouge (Bormes-les-Mimosas and Le Lavandou). For six years, Nicole Pestre, former deputy mayor for social affairs of Bormes-les-Mimosas, has taken over responsibility for the committee, whose work has expanded significantly.
She explains: "We operate with a team of 14 volunteers. We collect many donations that stock our wardrobe and the flea market. You can find very beautiful things there and, sometimes, designer clothes."
Thanks to our sales, we also act as a link with the social service of the Département by distributing food vouchers (non-alcoholic) in declared precarious situations.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the two Municipalités of Bormes-les-Mimosas and Le Lavandou for their grant of 1,500 each. Thank you also for making the rooms of Parc Jacob available, hoping perhaps for a larger and, above all, more accessible premises, mainly for certain beneficiaries."
RESILIENCE Its work is carried out in the shadow of Parc Jacob, where in its premises the association organizes sales of various second-hand items and a flea market. In what resembles an Ali Baba's cave, run by a beehive of goodwill, everything is neatly organized. On clothing racks, there is a wide choice to dress up and give a second life to good quality clothes, shoes, various accessories, items or tableware, household linen, and children's toys at mini-prices.
The proceeds from the sales help to alleviate social problems. Last year, the sum amounted to nearly €30,000! The place is highly popular, as around fifty people attend each opening session.
The local Croix Rouge was created in 1940 by the borméenne Marguerite Tézenas, in connection with the Toulon branch. From 1966, her daughter-in-law Marine ensured the succession for 56 years, carrying out, during her presidency, numerous visits to the sick and elderly.
Francine MARIE (text and photo).