The mission of the Friperie Itinérante is to prevent social isolation among residents in rural areas and to foster social connections

The Familles Rurales federation is launching an initiative to prevent social isolation among people in rural areas and to help revitalize rural communities: The Friperie Itinérante is a space open to everyone.

The service is identified by a branded truck that travels regularly through seven municipalities in the Tarn, visiting one or two per month on set days,  featuring a thrift store section and a reception and information area for the public.

The clothing aspect is the primary point of attraction for the public unfamiliar with the Mobile Thrift Store. It serves as a gateway to address all kinds of social, economic, family, educational, and health issues…

The foundation of the Friperie Itinérante is preventing the isolation of people in rural areas and maintaining social ties.

To carry out this social initiative, we offer a welcoming space for listening and information open to everyone that:

-provides a space for everyone to speak through the presence of two social workers on each tour, requiring active listening and support for identified individuals in need.

-fosters social connections by facilitating encounters and exchanges among residents within a welcoming space, where everyone can share a moment over a cup of coffee.

-informs people about access to rights and existing services, and/or refers them to partners capable of addressing their issues.

Means to achieve its objectives:

-A community outreach service operated by a truck selling secondhand clothing at low prices.

-Membership in a partnership network with social stakeholders (Departmental Council, MSA, CAF, etc.), local authorities and associations, mutual aid societies, as well as the Rural Families Social Life Centers (Vénès, Valence, etc.), and medical-psychological centers.  In fact, in each region, to integrate coherently into the local network, the Friperie Itinérante works in a complementary manner through initiatives and guidance tailored to the specific needs of the public.

-Welcoming and supporting individuals receiving minimum social benefits who are far from the job market, some of whom are engaged in integration volunteering at the Friperie Itinérante.

-Offering initiatives that enable everyone’s involvement and foster civic engagement among residents of each community by empowering them through volunteering, donations, and event organization.

-Proposing workshops on “self-esteem” in collaboration with social and community partners, aimed at individuals in the process of social and/or professional integration.

The Traveling Thrift Store is a social initiative financially supported by three main partners: the Department as part of the development and integration plan, the MSA MPN, and the Caf of the Tarn.  A steering committee meets once a year to present a review of the initiative and discuss future prospects.