Context
In Switzerland, a large number of asylum seekers or migrants encounter difficulties in integrating quickly and even more so in finding employment. Fragile mental health is a factor that worsens the possibilities of integration, which is the case for many who have experienced traumatic migration journeys (post-traumatic disorders). This mental state results in moral suffering and physical complications that deeply affect the personal, social, and professional life of the individual. People on social assistance with mental health problems experience the same reality: isolation often weighs heavily and only worsens their condition, diminishing their autonomy and social skills, while increasing the negative symptoms of their illness. As a result, integration into society becomes almost impossible.
Taking care of vulnerable individuals in a context of care related to nature and living beings is highly beneficial for their recovery.
FXB in action
PROMOTING THE SOCIAL INTEGRATION OF ASYLUM SEEKERS, MIGRANTS AND PEOPLE ON SOCIAL ASSISTANCE WITH PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS
Established in 2022, l’Echappée Verte is a diversified therapeutic micro-farm that respects biodiversity, dedicated to people on social assistance experiencing psychological distress. In order to promote their social integration, the ambition is to structure their daily lives by allowing them to dedicate themselves to a meaningful project that helps them regain confidence and break free from social isolation.
The participants are mainly accompanied through activities, involving working the land and interacting with living beings. Each day, they are welcomed on the field and work in nature to ultimately harvest the fruits of their labor. Psychosocial support is provided in the context of a non-institutional care setting, less intimidating than other existing structures.
_________________________
Project completed: In April 1991, FXB launched the operation “Les Rêves de François-Xavier”. The objective of this initiative was to fulfill the dreams of children residing in Switzerland, who were suffering from serious illnesses or whose health had been severely affected by an accident. The operation aimed primarily to offer these children a magical moment to help them fight against the disease and better cope with often difficult treatments. Over the past 30 years, 200 children have been able to realize their dreams thanks to FXB. Since then, many associations with the same objective have emerged in Switzerland, leading to the decision to end this project, as FXB’s commitment is no longer necessary.
