Homeless people in Paris demand shelter amid record heat

Dozens of homeless people gathered in Paris on Wednesday (27) to demand more places in shelters and emergency housing, amid an unprecedented heat wave that hit Europe.

"It seems that, yes, as the weather is pleasant, it is pleasant to live on the streets. No! As many people die on the streets in summer as in winter," said Nathan Lequeux, coordinator of the Utopia 56 Paris association, which led the demonstration.

Known for its work in defending the rights of immigrants and people in vulnerable situations, Utopia 56 organized the meeting to draw the attention of the regional administrative authorities in Paris, responsible for providing shelter to people living on the streets.

"Periods like this, with particularly unbearable temperatures, increase the urgency even more. That's why we are here today. We have been in the middle of a heat wave for two days, with 35 degrees. And, as you can see here, the government continues, recklessly, leaving extremely vulnerable people, that is, women and children, on the streets. There are many pregnant women and small babies," said Lequeux.

"It's difficult. It's hot out here. We can't just stay here like this. We need a place to live for ourselves and our children," said Soigna Goundo, a homeless protester and mother who has lived between the streets and shelters for years.

Another protester, a 34-year-old pregnant woman named Melissa, who chose to give only her first name, said she lost her home eight months ago. She attended the demonstration with her young daughter, Victoria, hoping authorities would hear her message.

"We are French citizens; we have rights, and our children also have rights. The government needs to see us and measures need to be taken," he said.

"Honestly, I wouldn't wish this on anyone, it's horrible, it's not easy. Especially at night, when it comes to sleeping, finding a place to stay or even eating," Melissa added.

Source: CNN