Nina Droff 06:09, August 08, 2022
A large number of seniors who are isolated or in precarious situations cannot afford a vacation.
This year again, the popular rescue organized for them a day cruise on the Seine followed by a dinner dance.
A way to offer a friendly moment to these seniors, delighted to have participated in the event.
If many French people go on vacation, this is not the case for all.
Many remain behind, and especially seniors who are sometimes isolated and in a precarious situation.
The Secours Populaire, like every year, offers a day's vacation to 200 seniors.
On the program: river stroll on the Seine, then a meal at the famous guinguette "chez Gègène" in Joinville-Le-Pont, to the delight of seniors.
When boarding the Canotier, each passenger is given a hat and a bottle of water.
Despite the light rain falling, the enthusiasm is there.
"We're not afraid of the rain! It makes beautiful plants grow!"
Bernadette and Sylvie are having fun, huddled under a red umbrella.
This is their very first boat cruise on the Seine.
Guided tour on the river
The adventure begins with a river stroll along the most beautiful Parisian monuments, told by the guide... The barge passes the Grand Palais, the Eiffel Tower, the Mazarine library, or even the cathedral of Notre-Dame, under the amazed eyes of the passengers.
Huguette, clinging to the railing to get a better view of the buildings, is spellbound.
"We really see everything! It's magnificent! We don't often have the opportunity to see things like that, we usually stay at home...", she says.
Next to her, Kevin, 68, adds: "To be able to see all this for just 5 euros, it's still incredible..."
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On the battered benches of the boat, the groups form and deform.
For many, this walk is also an opportunity to meet people.
Denise, 74, has just made a new friend.
"I didn't know this lady at all, but we started talking on the way," she rejoices, turning to her seat neighbor.
"I love having impromptu encounters like that. Especially since I'm very lonely, so it really makes me happy."
After several hours of crossing, the boat arrives at its destination: "Chez Gégène", a mythical dancing guinguette on the banks of the Marne.
The group is welcomed into the establishment by the sound of accordions.
The elders don't waste a second before hitting the dance floor, alone or in pairs.
Michèle doesn't hesitate to put down her cane to join the dance floor.
"We're ready to dance! We're going to try anyway," she exclaims before being dragged away by her friend to the sound of music.