Elodie Goupil, the founder of the Facebook group “I don’t throw away I give or barter (in Mayenne and neighboring areas)”, is proud of the platform’s success over the past four years. With over 10,340 members and nearly 350 objects exchanged per week, it has become a valuable resource in the region. However, Elodie is also concerned about a troubling trend she has observed: 90% of exchanges are now made for basic necessities like food, particularly infant milk.
Elodie spends two to three hours a day, seven days a week managing the content of the group and observing this increasing demand for basic necessities. She acknowledges that her group meets a real need for many people who are struggling financially. The idea for the group was born out of her own experience of financial struggle, leading her to create a platform for genuine and sincere sharing. Each announcement is carefully monitored to ensure compliance with the group’s regulations and to maintain respectful communication. Blocking users is a last resort, but seldom necessary as most members participate in good faith and out of necessity.
The success of Elodie’s group serves as a reflection of the challenging times many people are facing, highlighting the importance of community support and mutual aid in times of need.
