Secours populaire: 80 years of solidarity celebrated in Paris with commitment, festivities and the mobilisation of the “Green Father Christmases”

On the occasion of its 80th anniversary, the Secours populaire français marked eight decades of commitment to a fairer and more inclusive society.
The Paris Federation celebrated the event on 3 December, during its departmental congress, recalling its core mission: supporting people living, working or studying in precarious situations. With its unconditional welcome and equal-to-equal approach, the association remains a cornerstone of solidarity in France.

Cirque Phénix welcomes 5,000 children and families for the 7th edition of the “Green Father Christmases”

For the seventh consecutive year, Secours populaire chose the Cirque Phénix to launch its national “Green Father Christmases” campaign, aimed at ensuring that all families can enjoy a dignified and joyful Christmas.
The exceptional show brought together 5,000 children and their parents, who were invited to celebrate both the 80th anniversary of the organisation and the 25th anniversary of Cirque Phénix.
A festive moment that highlights how essential solidarity remains, especially in a context where social inequalities continue to grow.

Public figures mobilised from 3 December

On 3 December, several Parisian personalities joined the movement by playing the role of the Green Father Christmas to support the collection of toys, games, books and sweets.
This symbolic action carries the strong message of Secours populaire: “Christmas must forget no one”.
The mobilisation underlines the need for solidarity far beyond the festive season.

Rising precarity: nearly one in two parents feel shame

The latest Ipsos / Secours populaire barometer reveals an alarming reality:

• 49% of parents report feeling ashamed of not being able to offer their children the gifts they would like.

• 44% of the people supported live alone: students, seniors, precarious workers, migrants, refugees or isolated individuals.

These figures illustrate how essential the actions of Secours populaire — particularly the Green Father Christmas campaign — are in enabling thousands of families to enjoy the end-of-year celebrations with dignity.

Sport and solidarity: US Ivry Handball organises its Green Father Christmas match

On 5 December, US Ivry Handball and Secours populaire took over the Halle Carpentier for their traditional Green Father Christmas Match.
Spectators were invited to bring a new, unwrapped toy, in exchange for a free ticket to an upcoming match.
All gifts collected will be distributed to the families supported by the association for the Christmas season.

Ambius partnership: decoration and festive staging

This year, Ambius joined the operation by providing its expertise in decoration and plant design.
Its teams transformed the event spaces to create a warm and festive atmosphere designed to welcome beneficiary families under the best conditions.

An anniversary with eyes on the future

For its 80th anniversary, Secours populaire is not only celebrating its past.
The association reaffirms its commitment to acting daily for a more united society, regardless of people’s origins, life paths or social situations.

As needs continue to grow across France, the mobilisation of volunteers, partners and donors remains more essential than ever.

©2025 – IMPACT EUROPEAN

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