France is experiencing a series of exceptional heatwaves, which are hitting the most vulnerable people particularly hard. Several regions are facing wildfires on an unprecedented scale. In response to this crisis, and in complement to public emergency efforts, Fondation de France is launching an appeal for donations to help the victims and support those working on the front line - and is committing 300,000 euros with immediate effect to step up its efforts in the affected areas. Every gift adds to this commitment, expanding the reach of support on the ground.
or by cheque made payable to:
Fondation de France – Solidarité canicule, incendies
60509 Chantilly Cedex
As an emergency measure, Fondation de France is prioritizing aid to populations affected by the wildfires and the heatwaves. It supports associations that need additional resources to carry out their missions, particularly those that assist the most isolated and vulnerable populations (elderly people, homeless people, young children) and provide them with essential goods and services (shelter, food and water, care).
Among them is Le Garage moderne, which distributes meals to disaster victims at the Bordeaux Exhibition Center. Also involved are the Compagnons bâtisseurs, mobilized in several regions to provide "cool kits" and offer solutions for cooling homes exposed to extreme heat (fans, best practices).
Initiatives to support frontline workers (healthcare staff, caregivers, firefighters, etc.) are also central to this first phase of intervention.
At the same time, efforts are focusing on the socio-economic recovery of those who have lost equipment, production, and livelihoods during the disasters (small farmers, craftspeople, community organizations, etc.). The Corbières Solidaires Grands Feux initiative, launched by the Tiers-lieu paysan Beauregard in the Aude department, was supported by Fondation de France following recent wildfires. This initiative helped farmers affected by the Corbières fires, notably by organizing outreach efforts and rebuilding shelters and fences.
Finally, given the long-term challenges linked to climate change, Fondation de France remains committed to risk-prevention efforts and disaster-preparedness work. This is the focus of the ongoing program "For Resilient Territories and Housing in the Face of Crises and Disasters," as well as collective initiatives such as the "Coalition des fonds et fondations pour les forêts françaises", a coalition of funds and Foundations for French forests.
To carry out all these actions, Fondation de France relies on a unique network of more than 974 sheltered foundations and 10,000 partner associations across France, working in all areas of public interest. It also has solid experience managing national and local emergencies (United against the virus, Solidarity with Mayotte).
Photo credit : © Daniel ABELOUS / AFP
