Atlanta, GA: The Salvation Army in France and Belgium has launched a campaign encouraging citizens to provide complimentary access to electricity in order that homeless people \u2013 and others in need \u2013 can recharge their mobile telephones. During the COVID-19 lockdown, access to charging points in shops, cafes, day centers and other public venues has been curtailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
David Germain, Communications Director for The Salvation Army in France and Belgium, explains: \u2018The consequence is that homeless people can\u2019t remain in touch with their loved ones, or even make an emergency call if they have a problem.\u2019
Named #FreePlugs \u2013 after the #FreeHugs movement that was popularized before the introduction of social distancing \u2013 the campaign invites people to make a power extension cord safely available at the door or window of their home. This can be done in many settings without infringing guidelines on proximity to others.
\u2018It may not change the world,\u2019 admits David, \u2018But it\u2019s just one way for us to show that The Salvation Army continues to care about people. We can\u2019t hug, but we can plug!\u2019
An eye-catching poster has been designed for participating households to display in their window, and David hopes that the campaign might spread to other countries. \u2018We have nothing to lose,\u2019 he says. \u2018This is a very low-cost initiative, but it makes the world of difference to a vulnerable person who can be reconnected with the people who are important in their lives. It will be even more powerful if the idea is taken up in other places.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n
IHQ Communications
International Headquarters<\/em><\/p>\n