Samu Social International is a non-governmental organisation that was established on July 3, 1998 by Dr Xavier Emmanuelli. It is a federation of local "Samu Socials", an extension of the activity carried on by the Samu Social in Paris.
Samu Social International acts in emergencies, reaching out to people who are suffering because of their circumstances. It has an international remit and acts specifically in built-up areas, particularly very large cities. Its rescue operations consist of bringing aid and support to excluded populations: giving them first aid and guidance and assisting them to a place of shelter. These people are then directed to ongoing local structures that can help them out of the emergency situation, with a view to getting them back into the job market.
Samu Social International is characterised by its mobility, wide-ranging presence, technical skills, versatility and networks. It trains local staff on the spot and in France to enable them to enter into the health and social dynamic of the country. It unites Samu Socials operating under local law, which are set up to act according to its methods and its charter. There are now 16 Samu Social Internationals around the world.
The Carrefour International Foundation has supported these various programmes since 2001, particularly in Romania, Russia and Colombia.
