The association Promofemmes was founded 31 years ago, based on the observation that many mothers visiting the PMI were going out too little and had a poor understanding of French. The first workshops were created.
"Once they were able to access French, better understand what was happening for their children, and feel concerned, they were able to take much better care of themselves,” says Marie-Ange Dubois.
Today, Promofemmes has 7 activity areas. The one for “learning,” which includes, of course, learning the French language, but also math and courses focused on school, relationships with teachers, and communication notebooks.
There is also the “access to rights” area, with administrative support; the “health” area, to maintain health and take care of oneself, with sports, as well as cooking workshops, nutrition, and not forgetting the pleasure aspect. Then, mothers can benefit from parenting support.
And the last activity area is for those who have the right to work. So it’s support to better understand how work functions in France, looking for internships. Some are offered directly by Promofemmes.
In reality, the support offered evolves based on the needs expressed by the beneficiaries themselves. “We ensure that all the women who participate, those who come to the workshops as well as the volunteers, are active in the projects,” emphasizes Marie-Ange Dubois. “It’s a sharing experience each time. Everyone has their own skills and shares them.”
Sharing cultures also means going to museums for creative workshops, visits, and attending shows and plays. A particular effort is made around conviviality. “Living together is really the spirit of the association,” specifies Marie-Ange Dubois. “Everything that gives confidence to these women also allows them to benefit their entire family, because we support them, because we allow them to express themselves, because we give them the time, above all, to express themselves. So, there is also this work of giving a place to the other.”
"And once these women and families feel accepted, all they ask for is to be integrated. The goal of the association is the integration of women and families in French territory. And under these conditions, it works very well. Trust through listening and attention, guidance, all of this allows each one to take their place in harmony with society. And that is essential.”
