Every year, more people in France turn to charitable organizations for help, and the Secours populaire is no exception. In Niort, the organization runs food distributions three times a week, providing essential supplies to individuals facing financial difficulties. These distributions help people meet basic needs and live with dignity. Each week, the Secours populaire assists around 1,000 people. One of the recent beneficiaries is an octogenarian who had never considered asking for help before. A social worker referred her to the organization, which she now describes as a crucial support during a challenging period. She receives vegetables and other items, which help her family manage on a tighter budget. She believes that everyone, at some point, may need assistance. This increase in the number of people needing help has been observed for nearly four years. Beyond providing food, the Secours populaire offers social connections and a sense of community. These efforts are made possible by 300 volunteers, including Jean-Louis, who moved from Bangui in the Central African Republic. He has a background in social work and feels that helping others is essential to living a fulfilling life. His contribution, like those of other volunteers, is vital to the organization’s mission of solidarity and support. The Secours populaire's work goes beyond food aid. Vladimir Serdeczny, treasurer of the Deux-Sèvres departmental federation, explains that the organization provides various services, such as assistance with accessing rights, holiday programs, cultural activities, French language classes for non-native speakers, a clothing store, and health-related support through local hospitals and CPAM (a French health insurance agency). These services are funded by donations and the generosity of local communities. The organization also encourages beneficiaries to contribute according to their means, helping them feel valued and part of the solution. In addition to food, the Secours populaire collects thousands of clothing items during its distributions. In another part of the center, a clothing store offers affordable options for the entire family. Last year, the store collected 12,000 kg of donations, including high-quality second-hand clothes, unsold items from stores, and individual contributions. Volunteers sort and organize the donations with the people who bring them, ensuring they are suitable for different needs. This Saturday, September 12, the organization is hosting a large sale, where people can refresh their wardrobes at low prices while supporting a good cause.