“We are restoring confidence in donors”: 1,000 Solly payment cards tested in France to facilitate donations to the homeless

The marauding of the Soldiers of Smiles begins in the icy air of Lille (North). This Friday evening in December, the wheeled shopping bags of the association’s volunteers are filled with sandwiches, hygiene products and even sleeping bags.

We have three missions: to provide essential help, to share a moment and smiles, and to change society’s view of homelessness,” explains Christophe, the treasurer.

In recent days, the association has had a new tool to help. Thanks to Solly, a payment card, people who are begging can now receive electronic donations. “We have already distributed around thirty,” says Christophe.

Impossible to finance an addiction, an online purchase or to withdraw money

The device was created by Tim Deguette, a 22-year-old from Lille. “Today, two thirds of citizens no longer have money. 70% have fears about the use of their money, says Tim. They fear it will end up in alcohol, drugs, tobacco or gambling. »

Solly helps solve both of these problems. “Donors pay with a smartphone and we give them confidence because the money is only used for the purchase of basic necessities (food, accommodation, care, hygiene, transport, telephone, clothing, etc.)” It is impossible to finance an addiction, make an online purchase or withdraw money.

Passers-by crowd the Place de l’Opéra. Leaving work, shopping, Christmas shopping… Few people notice Stéphane*, 53, sitting in front of a bakery with his dog. Crouching down, Christophe explains the principle of the card and its limits to him. “It’s useful and intelligent, it will be used for good things,” the man smiles.

The volunteer provides him with the card as well as a large QR code. Donors will be able to scan it and pay directly by credit card, with Apple Pay or Google Pay. The beneficiary can use the money by inserting their payment card into a POS and using a PIN code.

“The amount is two euros minimum and one hundred euros maximum. Donations are tax exempt. For the first use, there is a form to fill out: title, name, first name, e-mail, telephone, postal address,” underlines Christophe. Safety-wise, there’s no need to worry. “We have banking regulations. Everything is secure, traceable and blurred,” explains Tim.

“With the Q/A code, I approach people more easily”

Ringo, 52, found himself on the street a month and a half ago, following a breakup. “I can’t ask for change… It’s a question of honor and pride,” says the man. With the QR code, I approach people more easily. » He has been using Solly for ten days and has received 50 euros in donations so far. “I show the flyer. People are curious! And they find it easier to give than with change. »

On its application, Christophe, a member of the Soldiers of Smiles, already sees the effectiveness of the initiative. Some managed to raise up to 150 euros. In total, 1,000 Solly cards will be distributed in twelve French cities, for a six-month test. The experiment was able to start thanks to citizen mobilization – a fundraising of 80,000 euros. To finance the purchase of cards, bank charges and operations, “a fixed commission of 9% on each donation is applied”, underlines Tim. The team remains 100% voluntary and all extra money is donated to two housing associations.

*The first name has been changed