France Donation

A big thank you to Andy and Simmy for the donation they took to Gap in France a few months ago. Here is what they had to say.

"In July 2010, my partner and I had the opportunity to travel the vast expanses of France, including a three day stay in the town of Gap. Gap (formed in 14 BC), is in the Hautes-Alpes department in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur in the South of France. This town forms a regional centre for communities living in the Southern Alps. It sits 800 metres above sea level and boasts 300+ days of sun a year. It has a population of around 36,000 and its income is generated through tourism (main source), agricultural industry, clothes manufacturing, wood products and construction material.

The township and surrounding Alpine communities is supported by the Gap General Hospital, which including a pediatric ward. While the population of Gap enjoys a decent standard of living compared to neighboring countries, there is still a dependence on France’s health system, particularly in regards to family services. In fact, I was often taken back by the degree of poverty encountered in France and Gap was no exception. After overcoming the usual language barriers with hospital staff, I was escorted to the Pediatric Ward where the jump suits provided by Baby Teresa, were presented to senior nursing staff. The staff were very grateful of the gift from Australia and the suits were immediately provided to some of the poorer families present in the ward.

Overall, the opportunity to make such a donation was a great experience and I’m sure there are a number of very grateful families in Gap, France."