Solidarity Mother's Day: restaurant vouchers for single-parent families

Context

In brief

• 26 single-parent families receive restaurant vouchers
• Value between 100 and 300 francs
• 74 beneficiaries, including 50 children

Key facts

• What: Restaurant vouchers
• When: May 10, 2026
• Where: Ticino
• Who: Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino and GastroTicino
• Amount: 100-300 francs

LUGANO - Solidarity Mother's Day for Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino and GastroTicino. The two associations have joined forces to celebrate May 10 by bringing a smile. In concrete terms, 26 single-parent families in economic fragility have received vouchers offered by GastroTicino worth between 100 and 300 francs, proportional to the family composition. A simple but significant gesture that will allow 74 people – including 50 children – to experience a moment of normality and sharing within the restaurants affiliated with the association chaired by Massimo Suter.

Concrete help

The initiative is particularly aimed at single mothers, often facing complex personal situations, such as difficult separations and lack of financial support. Women who, despite everything, carry out their parental role with determination, daily facing sacrifices and difficulties. In Ticino, single-parent families represent an increasingly relevant reality: about 20% of families with children under 25 are composed of a single parent and, in the vast majority of cases (over 80%), it is the mother.

The economic situation

These are nuclei particularly exposed to the risk of poverty: already in 2020, almost a third were in this condition and almost half were unable to face an unexpected expense. Data that, in recent years, has only worsened. It is precisely in this context that the support of economic actors such as GastroTicino takes on even more value, whose commitment demonstrates how collaboration between the associative world and the economic fabric can generate a concrete and lasting impact on the territory.

A virtuous example

A virtuous example that Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino hopes will be followed by an increasing number of local realities. The value of this gesture is also testified by the words of one of the beneficiaries: 'I have just received your voucher to have dinner with my daughter: I am really moved, because only you understand how hard it is to face such difficult moments. After complicated years I managed to start over, but I still find myself with nothing. Unfortunately, the months go by and the bureaucratic mobilization is very long, I hope to make it as soon as possible. Two months ago you helped me pay many bills and I was able to breathe a huge sigh of relief. I will never thank you enough for what you do, and for this last incredible thought.'

Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino

For Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino, this project – now in its fourth consecutive year – represents much more than a symbolic initiative: it is a concrete sign of closeness and attention to those living in vulnerable situations, and an invitation to the entire economic community to actively contribute to building a stronger and more inclusive solidarity network. Founded in 1936, Soccorso d'Inverno is a non-profit organization that provides help throughout the year to people affected by poverty. Its main services are the payment of urgent bills, the distribution of goods, such as beds or clothes, and support for children, particularly for extracurricular activities. The direction of Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino is entrusted to Paola Eicher-Pellegrini. The Committee is composed of the following members: Marco Chiesa (President), Fiorenzo Dadò (Vice-President), Roberto Agosta, Olivia Albergati and Stevens Crameri. All these people work on a voluntary basis.

Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

This solidarity initiative not only helps struggling single-parent families but also demonstrates the importance of collaboration between the economic sector and volunteer associations. For cross-border workers living in Italy and working in Ticino, it is an example of how the social and economic fabric of the Canton of Ticino can offer concrete support in times of need.

How to participate

If you are a cross-border worker and want to contribute to similar initiatives, you can donate to Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino or participate in events organized by GastroTicino. Additionally, you can report families in need who could benefit from this type of support. Donations can be made online or at the local offices of Soccorso d'Inverno.

The value of solidarity

Solidarity is a fundamental value in an inclusive society. Initiatives like this show how small gestures can make a big difference in people's lives. For cross-border workers, who often find themselves navigating between two different systems, it is important to know that there are support networks ready to help in times of difficulty.

Conclusion

The initiative by Soccorso d'Inverno and GastroTicino for Mother's Day is an example of how solidarity can create a positive and lasting impact. For cross-border workers, it is an opportunity to see how the social and economic fabric of Ticino can offer concrete and inclusive support.

Recommended tools

For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Key points

What to do if you're in difficulty

If you find yourself in an economic difficulty and you're a single parent, you can contact Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino to request support. The organization offers a series of services, including the payment of urgent bills, the distribution of essential goods, and support for children's extracurricular activities.

How to donate

If you want to contribute to solidarity initiatives like this one, you can make a donation to Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino. Donations can be made online or at local offices. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.

Report cases of need

If you know of single-parent families in difficulty, you can report their case to Soccorso d'Inverno Ticino. The organization will assess the situation and, if necessary, provide the appropriate support.

Use the salary calculator

For cross-border workers who want to better plan their finances, it's useful to use the salary calculator available on our website. This tool helps you better understand your net income and plan your expenses.

Conclusion

Solidarity is a fundamental value that can make a difference in people's lives. If you're a cross-border worker in Ticino, remember that there are support networks ready to help you in times of difficulty. Contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive community as well.

Source: tio.ch