Six months ago, few days after the first Russian offensive in Ukraine, Fondation de France lauched a solidarity appeal to help the vulnerable population affected by the conflict.

Karine Meaux, Head of the International Solidarity Department of Fondation de France, gives an update on the local situation and the actions undertaken.

Thanks to the Solidarity with Ukraine call for funds launched on February 28, almost 14 million euros was raised to help those affected by the conflict. How does Fondation de France operate in this context? What takes priority? Here is a review of the work to date.

The appeal for funds launched by Fondation de France on February 28 has raised 14 million euros to help the people affected by the conflict in Ukraine. This amazing outpouring of generosity contributes to supporting immediate action on the ground for those who need it.

On 28 February, the Fondation de France launched a fundraising appeal to help families affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Thanks to the tremendous outpouring of generosity from donors - individuals and companies alike - and from sheltered foundations, more than €5 million has already been raised.

2 millions people have already left Ukraine to escape the military offensive in the country. In coordination with several European foundations, the Fondation de France is launching a solidarity appeal to provide emergency aid to thousands of people affected by the conflict.

Fondation de France acted quickly during the health crisis: support for carers and helpers, support for research and support for the vulnerable: over 650 projects were conducted throughout France in just two months. The crisis has highlighted existing frailties and those that were less visible, it has exposed the limits of our modes of production and consumption. The support mechanisms for the most vulnerable were quickly overwhelmed by the scale of the demand… Now, urgent long-term action is required.

On 13 November 2020, five years after the Bataclan attacks, the symphonic poem 'It will always be November in my soul' will be broadcast for the first time. Instigated by the parents of Stéphane, a victim of the attacks, this work has been created thanks to the New Patrons initiative of Fondation de France.

Since 2015, Fondation de France has been actively engaged in facing terrorist acts and threats, complementing the government’s response. Fondation de France has set itself an important task, in addition to the help provided to victims in the months following the attacks. The idea is to develop critical thinking in young people and to enhance their ability in deciphering news, to help prevent indoctrination and radicalization.

The social and economic crisis is snowballing as the health crisis continues. Poverty is on the increase and many – including elderly people and those affected by disability and mental health issues – are being cut off from society. Added to that is the particularly tough situation that front line health workers and carers face once again, as they cope with the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.