Mountain holidays in the Jura: a solidarity break for our seniors

A project led by the association "Little Brothers of the Poor"

Since 1946, Little Brothers of the Poor has been working to combat the isolation and loneliness of older people, especially the most vulnerable. Through their visits, social gatherings, and solidarity holiday initiatives, volunteers rebuild connections, restore confidence, and offer seniors the opportunity to rediscover the joy of life. Every action aims to remind us of a fundamental truth: no one should grow old alone.

A mountain getaway to break isolation

From January 18 to 25, 2025, thanks (in part) to the financial support of our Foundation, the Little Brothers of the Poor teams in Lille Vauban and Arras organized a pilot "mountain holiday" for ten isolated seniors.

The goal: to offer a week of relaxation, discovery, and fellowship, away from the sometimes difficult daily grind, in order to promote well-being, mobility, and social connection.

A program rich in discoveries and emotions

For some participants, it was their first time seeing the mountains covered in snow. For others, this trip marked a long-awaited return after more than 40 or 50 years. All were able to enjoy a peaceful environment, conducive to disconnecting and creating lasting memories.

Throughout the week, participants shared:

• a sledding outing

• a chairlift ride to admire the scenery

• a visit to the Chaux Neuve Polar Park

• a horse-drawn carriage ride in the village of Malpas

• a visit to a cheese factory, where they discovered how Morbier cheese is made

• walks at the foot of the slopes

• comforting snacks (crepes, waffles, blueberry tart)

• writing workshops and creative activities

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In short, a program designed to be accessible, safe, and adapted to everyone's abilities.

A Powerful Human Experience

Beyond the activities, this trip was a true breath of fresh air in terms of relationships. The bonds between the seniors and the volunteers were strengthened, exchanges multiplied, and the participants felt fully supported, listened to, and valued.

The testimonials gathered at the start of the project took on their full meaning here: "I'd love to see snow again," "I've never seen the mountains in winter," "I'd love to build another snowman"... All these dreams were fulfilled.

A Real Impact on Well-being

This trip directly contributes to improving the well-being of the people we support:

• breaking isolation

• creating new social connections

• building self-esteem and renewed energy

• a sense of security and respect

• moments of joy, discovery, and sharing

  
  

The participants returned "tired, but happy," as one volunteer summed it up, with their heads full of warm memories.