Fondation Mère Sofia

Mission

Since 1992, the Mère Sofia Foundation has been working in Lausanne to combat poverty and social exclusion, offering support and welcome to all without discrimination. Through its different structures — la Soupe Populaire, l'Échelle and Macadam — it provides concrete and accessible support, ranging from free meals to social assistance and paid work opportunities. Its low-threshold, pragmatic and human approach aims to meet essential needs, rebuild social connections and help restore a sense of dignity and belonging.

La Soupe Populaire (the Soup Kitchen) is at the heart of our work. Open 365 days a year, it welcomes people every evening as well as at lunchtime from Wednesday to Sunday, with no conditions or registration required. On average, around 250 meals are served each evening and 200 at lunchtime. All meals are prepared on site, largely using rescued surplus food, in a spirit of solidarity and sustainability.