TURIN - The Bishop of Turin, Monsignor Cesare Nosiglia, is calling on authorities to better support those who are on the streets, in the wake of Mofasa, a homeless man’s, tragic death. He believes evictions should be minimised and more help should be given to those who lack shelter. 

   Mofasa, a 59-year-old who originated from Morocco, was greatly appreciated by locals for his polite and kind manner. He knew how to speak “at least five languages”. Despite being without a home, due to being evicted, he “never asked for money” or help of any kind, according to the local Social Services. Indeed, even on his final night, once he was seriously unwell, he refused to be received by any charitable and emergency organisations, meaning that he only accepted hot tea, a brioche and a blanket. 

  Following this tragedy, the bishop of Turin has announced that there will be a meeting “with the prefect and the mayor […] as well as with the social services that deal specifically with those who are homeless”. Archbishop Nosiglia says the Church is very willing to help, as we shouldn’t only consider “mass dormitories, but rather structures for 2 or 3 people.”

  The Community of Sant’Egidio have signed the “Open Letter Against Eviction”, after the death of Mostafa in the surroundings of bar in central Turin. The letter calls for the “responsibility of all, starting with the institutions […] to prevent people from dying.” This association pleads for any city officials, especially the mayor, to protect those who are in danger, above all during the bitter winter months during the pandemic. They believe cruel evictions of people must be extinguished. Sant’Egidio has declared that “no one should die from inhospitality anymore.” They have stated that Mofasta’s death was “avoidable, that it should not be classed as a fatality, or even a free choice.”

 jp-av