In Montpellier, under the scorching summer sun, an unbearable reality emerges. When temperatures exceed 35 degrees, the cries of distress of the homeless resonate with tragic intensity. These men and women, already weakened by poverty and isolation, find themselves trapped in a crushing heatwave, their vulnerable bodies facing an unequal struggle against the heat. Can we really look away, ignore their suffering, when the notion of solidarity is struggling to find its way into our consciousness? It is high time to raise our voices, break the silence and act for those who, every day, face the horror of a world that has forgotten them.
Extreme temperatures, a daily challenge for the homeless
The mercury is climbing happily beyond the 30°C in mid-August in Montpellier. While some take refuge in air-conditioned places or enjoy the coolness of swimming pools, many are not so lucky. THE homeless, deprived of associations and places to cool off, are particularly suffering. How can their situation still go unnoticed?
Fountains, valuable but insufficient access
For people like Chris, 47, the plaza’s drinking water fountain represents a lifeline. “ We come every day to the drinking water fountain on the esplanade “, he says. However, this single source of fresh water in the Écusson de Montpellier is far from being sufficient to meet the needs of dozens of people. Why aren’t there more working fountains?
Absence of associations, abandonment of volunteers
The rest of the year, the homeless benefit from the support of centers like Saint-Paul, offering food and hygiene products. Sofyane explains: “In the morning, you can have a good breakfast for ten cents. Even if you don’t have them, they will give you food. » But in August, the situation deteriorated. Because of the holidays, many associations close, leaving the most deprived to fend for themselves.
Daily life in stifling heat
Gaëlle, for example, is suffering from the heatwave. “ I think I got sunstroke. I return everything I eat, except salads “, she confides. With nausea frequent and extreme fatigue, she is unable to go to the fountain to cool off. The heat prevents him from breathing and sleeping, adding additional weight to an already inhumane struggle.
Solidarity and organization at the heart of survival
Despite the lack of external support, people like Chris and Sofyane stick together and organize to survive. “ In summer, there is no marauding. We’re drowning in the street! So, we stand together “, explains Chris. Supporting yourself is essential to enduring high temperatures. The afternoon is devoted to showers and washing clothes at the fountain.
Moments of escape to forget hell
In search of respite, some choose to leave the city for a few hours. “ Around twenty of us leave for Carnon, with the shuttle. We do things right, at 9 a.m. we’re there, we get a cooler with food », says Soso. These escapes, although temporary, offer welcome relief from an overwhelming reality.
What can we do?
It is crucial not to turn a blind eye to this dramatic situation. Whether by supporting associations during the summer, asking for the installation of more water points or directly offering help to the homeless, every gesture counts. Let us not remain indifferent to cries of distress of these people. Let’s act for a fairer summer.