About 300 impoverished people living in Rome come to this soup kitchen everyday.
It's located in the popular Trastevere neighborhood. The Community of Sant'Egidio has managed it since 1988. Despite the pandemic, its doors remain open, always respecting security measures.
MASSIMILIANO SIGNIFREDI
Community of Sant'Egidio
“The Community of Sant'Egidio's soup kitchen remains open. We believe that in this moment, when authorities are asking us to stay home, we also have to think about those who don't have homes.”
The Community of Sant'Egidio's soup kitchens remain open. The community has also added space in their shelters. In these difficult moments Italy is experiencing, the community has intensified its work under the motto, “We will not leave you alone.” They have also distributed food packages.
MASSIMILIANO SIGNIFREDI
Community of Sant'Egidio
“It's a creative way to continue to live in solidarity, a fundamental dimension. The coronavirus has shown us that we will survive together. If we all become infected, things will end badly. We have to be responsible. We have to continue doing what we do, in a new way.”
One of the biggest challenges has been bringing people hope and peace. Although they can't hug them physically, they don't stop expressing their commitment and closeness, even with a simple gaze. Another way is through the internet.
MASSIMILIANO SIGNIFREDI
Community of Sant'Egidio
“There are people who don't talk to anyone. They are alone at home. Isolation increases the risk of growing in fear. Fear doesn't help overcome the virus or stop contagion. That's why every evening, from the Church of Sant'Egidio, we broadcast a prayer online, in many different languages. Many people participate. In this moment, we need help praying.”
This prayer can be followed everyday at 6 p.m., Rome time, at santegidio.org.
Daniel Díaz Vizzi
Translation: Claudia Torres
