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Ikea helps Jean-Pierre, a homeless who has been sleeping for a year in front of a store in Vénissieux.
Rhône – Soon a happy ending for Jean -Pierre? This sixties, homeless for a year, settled in front of an Ikea store in Vénissieux, in the Rhône. Its history, publicized in June by the regional daily Progresshad aroused great emotion … to the point that the Swedish furniture giant wants to help him, several local media reported this Friday, July 4.
Arrived in Lyon in February 2023, Jean-Pierre lost everything after his motorhome, which broke down in March 2024, was removed by the pound. He had been placed before a dealer pending repairs. In the absence of means, the sixty -something could not pay the fine and his vehicle was sold. He then found himself homeless.
“I just want to get my retirement and go to Greece”he had said, saying that he only lacked six quarters, less than two years, to benefit from his allowances.
Housing to find urgently
His situation moved the Ikea human resources service which made him a hiring proposal, reported Progress et France 3 In articles published between Thursday and Friday. “I did not expect that from Ikeareacted Jean-Pierre, My story went up to the capital, the articles have had a very good effect ”.
One problem remains however: in addition to the points of the contract which must still be fixed, Jean-Pierre must have accommodation to leave his female dog Oli during his working hours. “Social services close the doors to me, I can’t have an apartmenthe deplored with France 3, I try to reach everyone but nothing works. »»
On the side of Ikea, we assure that “The store team accompanies” Jean-Pierre “To find an adequate solution to your situation”. “Contacts were made with the city and referent associations”said the Swedish giant at Progress.
