"Everyone feels at home." Father Eugenio Cavallo describes the "Adopt a Grandparent" project, which, starting in April 2025 in Sassari, brings together seniors from the historic center and young people with disabilities to share their experiences. Sponsored by the churches of the Duomo and Sant'Apollinare, and by the Strada Fare association, the initiative received support from the Municipality of Sassari. "They come here," explains the priest, "and overcome their mistrust and loneliness."
These phenomena entangle residents, especially older adults, who live confined to their homes, often without any social life. Or who wander aimlessly, beset by the constant temptation of gambling addiction. "I see many of them whose days, unfortunately, consist of going from one tobacconist to another to play scratch cards."
During the three weekly meetings on Via Gran Condotto, between Via Sant'Apollinare and Largo Infermeria San Pietro, about 35 project participants share their knowledge. "They cook ravioli, pasta, and pizza together. And they're proud of what they've accomplished." The older members are deeply moved. "They feel like they've gone back to the days when they used to exchange lemons, soap, and coal."
But even the young people, some of whom are cared for by the Mental Health Center, feel involved and teach the older ones music and karaoke. These are convivial moments in a sort of free zone where no one judges, even if, perhaps externally, they were involved in some publicly censored incident.
Discussions, lessons, and exchanges of knowledge take place together, and we stand by those who are grieving, such as those who have recently lost a parent. "The project concludes in November and we will continue it," assures Father Eugenio, who has managed to attract people over two and a half years. "By word of mouth, and by asking people I saw on the street if they wanted to come." He thus attempts to plant a seed that will foster collaboration and solidarity. "And we won't stop there. We'll also put on theater, and soon, Jubilant, an initiative dedicated to young people, will be relaunched." It's the other side of Sassari Vecchia, which is reacting and refusing to give in to the degradation.
