SoliKer launches mobile support bus

The association SoliKer, which works to combat the isolation of seniors, social and food insecurity, has initiated a new project called Vavang’Ker, a solidarity bus designed to reach elderly residents in the highlands of La Réunion. According to Emilie Gallet, co-founder and director of the association, the initiative aims to address the growing issue of isolation among the elderly, particularly in remote areas where mobility is difficult due to rising living costs and fuel prices.

Vavang’Ker’s features and routes

The Vavang’Ker bus, named for its dual meaning of food and mobility, was renovated last year through participatory workshops and funded by the Citizen Initiative Budget. It serves as a mobile social grocery store with three pricing tiers, a mini cyber space with two computers, a children's area, a library, a ludoteca, and a reception and living area. The bus travels through the highlands of Saint-Louis, Saint-Leu, and Saint-Paul, visiting six neighborhoods every 15 days on fixed schedules.

Collaborations and challenges

The association collaborates with local neighborhood associations, public policies, urban policy, municipalities, and the CCAS to inform residents and collect needs. The bus is staffed by a dedicated driver, an ex-beneficiary of the solidarity grocery store who is familiar with the routes and helps families. The project faces challenges such as parking in the highlands, technical maintenance, and ensuring sustainability despite rising fuel costs.

SoliKer’s other initiatives

SoliKer also operates a solidarity grocery store in Saint-Louis, part of the "Andes" network, offering essential products at three different price levels. The store works with local farmers to develop short supply chains and reduce the cost of living barriers for residents. The association's headquarters in Saint-Louis includes a solidarity thrift shop, cyber space, children's area, exchange space with a solidarity fridge, and a plant tech area. Future plans include expanding the solidarity fridge initiative to other cities on the island.

Community focus and future goals

Emilie Gallet emphasized the importance of mutual aid and solidarity, noting that the association aims to remove barriers such as shame, access, and administrative complexity to foster community support. The Vavang’Ker project has already shown encouraging results, with high participation in social support sessions and a growing neighborhood dynamic. The association seeks to secure public support to ensure the project's long-term sustainability and to help residents develop skills to maintain these services.