The Associació Loles in Barcelona is also part of the RFMed, and its shelter and support work is based at the Franciscan convent on Santaló Street 80. This is where they carry out their work of welcoming, supporting, integrating, and advocating for justice for young migrants.
They say: Our “work” with Awe – three years with us – now with residency and a work contract; with Bilal – two years with us, also with residency and an internship contract; with Abdellah, a year and a half with us, who has submitted an application for residency on the basis of training, currently awaiting his NIE in the coming months; and Idir, also a year and a half in the Association, whose application for socio-labor residency will be submitted to immigration in May; as I said, our “work” with them was well on track, and we felt satisfied seeing how, with patience and perseverance, goals are being met – but above all, thanks to their own effort.
However, on the other hand, we receive more and more requests every day. We’re concerned about not being able to effectively manage the personal situations being brought to us, from more young men on the street who want to leave that life behind and find a path that leads to residency and a work contract. We feel comfortable with four young men – we’re able to secure the necessary resources to support them and dedicate time to accompany them. But the requests keep coming, persistently, because the needs keep growing. Friendly institutions and people who know us call and say: “We have a young man who’s about to end up on the street. The place he’s currently staying in has told him he has to leave. We’re heartbroken – he’s a great guy, volunteers with us, attends Spanish and Catalan classes… Can’t you take him in?”
And what are we here for, if not for this? Why four and not five?
That’s how Abdoul, from Niger, came to our home – the fifth. He was warmly welcomed by Awe, Bilal, Abdellah, and Idir. He arrived serious, eyes lowered, and silent. He only spoke when directly addressed, and usually in such a low voice that you had to ask him to repeat himself more loudly. Today, he already smiles and answers more confidently.
But it couldn’t end there. A month ago, again, another call – insistent. Those who know the young man were crying as they told us his story and begged us to find one more space. And so, today with Assana, they are six.
Six wonderful guests who are the Spirit, the Soul of Associació Loles!
