The diocesan dormitory of Forio will not close: it was the volunteers who prevented it Smile Canteen, even ready to occupy in order to prevent the homeless of the island from going back to sleeping on the streets. The news of the possible closure of the structure, active since January 2025 at the Reception Center "Giovanni Paolo II", had alarmed the community, but today it is the same Diocesan Caritas to reassure everyone: the service continues regularly.
The risk of closure was linked to the absence of a night guard, a figure necessary to guarantee operational continuity. But the determination of the volunteers - on the front line Fausta Little e Charles Jordan – made the difference. On local microphones, they had openly declared that they were ready to stay in the facility day and night, just to keep it from closing.
A victory of solidarity from below, which on an island where poverty is growing, is becoming increasingly essential. In fact, there are hundreds of families who rely on Caritas and other voluntary organizations for basic necessities, while every evening the Smile Canteen of Casamicciola welcomes dozens of people – including many Italians – offering a hot meal in an atmosphere of respect and dignity.
But even here, resources are never enough: the half-empty refrigerator tells of a daily commitment amidst a thousand difficulties, in which every help can make a difference. And there are also those who get involved in person to learn and lend a hand: like the boys of “Giorgio Buchner” High School di Ischia, who in recent months have participated in an orientation project at the canteen, living an educational and human experience that will remain etched in their memory.
Article published on 16 April 2025 - 16:50
The situation of the diocesan dormitory in Forio is very important, and the volunteers' decision not to let it close is a sign of solidarity. However, I hope that lasting solutions will be found to avoid future problems with management and the necessary resources.
It is good news that the Diocesan shelter will not close, but there are still many challenges to be faced. The volunteers are doing an excellent job, but more support from the community is needed to ensure a better future for the homeless.
It's good news that the dormitory won't close, but I have doubts about how the volunteers can manage all this alone. Resources are limited and the economic situation is not improving. Let's hope there is more help.