A young couple in a residential quarter of Toulouse decided to put their large garden, with its shady trees and large open spaces to some good humanitarian use. So they built a large chalet in the grounds and formed an association to house homeless people from the area. "Living in the streets; sleeping under bridges; ex-offenders - but mainly "roms" (Roma people)" have been welcomed into the garden. They have been taught language and skills, including building more chalets themselves and they provide work, alongside skilled artisans, to supporters of the association in the area. The garden also has its own potager and some animals giving an element of self sufficiency and open to visits from local school children.
Inevitably some local residents are unhappy at these activities in their back yard and have challenged the couple in court. Others are more supportive, but in the meantime the couple continue to make a difference to the lives of these poor people.
Malc found this story which I love but Malc said " Would you do it Val, in the garden? " and I probably would not as I like the quiet calm of the country, so it makes it an even more admirable thing to do.
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