Aging well means, above all, living life to the fullest!

The Monsieur Vincent Association, founded in 1994 by the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul and the Association of Saint Michel-Saint Vincent Hospital (Paris), operates through several medical and social care facilities and services. The AMV pays special attention to the most disadvantaged, dependent, or vulnerable elderly people.

The Belletanche Estate in Moselle: A Long History with the Daughters of Charity

In 1894, a family donated land to the sisters for their community and to support their charitable work on behalf of the poor and the elderly.

More than 130 years have passed, and this estate continues to embody a spirit of innovation and solidarity: student housing combined with volunteer work for the elderly, an inclusive housing project, intergenerational partnerships with daycare centers and schools, sustainable development, and the “Espace Rosalie” Center for Adapted Activities and Care...

More than just care

“End-of-life care is about more than just medical treatment. It’s also about enabling families to be present, to stay, and to keep watch, without practical constraints or distance getting in the way of these essential moments,” explains Muriel Malassé, director.

Currently, families can visit their loved ones day or night; however, they do not have a dedicated space for respite and rest within the Domaine de Belletanche residences.

“We have observed that this can lead to significant stress and sometimes feelings of guilt related to their inability to be present around the clock. Residents, for their part, may feel a sense of loneliness or abandonment during a time of great vulnerability.” Jessie Bavarin, psychologist.

The Project: Helping to create “Louise Appart,” a space for families

Specifically, this involves renovating existing facilities formerly occupied by the Daughters of Charity to give them a new purpose as a shelter serving families.
The “Louise Appart” will be a functional and comfortable space, designed to promote rest and privacy for families.

This facility is a modern response to the need for high-quality care for residents who are nearing the end of their lives or going through a difficult time. It will:

- encourage the continuous presence of loved ones
- humanize care by reducing practical and logistical constraints
- provide a welcoming, dignified, and soothing environment for families
- prevent the psychological distress caused by separation.

“This project for a simple, peaceful, and welcoming space embodies Vincentian values: welcoming, providing relief, and offering support until the end of life. The name of this apartment comes
from Saint Louise de Marillac, co-founder of the Daughters of Charity.” Sr. Antoinette Marie

The number of beneficiaries will range from 16 to 32 people per year (families and residents).

A nominal fee of €30 per night will be charged to cover a portion of operating costs, while ensuring equitable access for all families, regardless of their income.

“The ‘Louise Appart’ will be included in the welcome booklet and in the next institutional plan. It will be presented to families during the pre-admission visit so that they are informed of this accommodation option.” Muriel Malassé, Director.

The “Louise Appart” can also be used in other situations: during the first few days of a hospital stay when family members live far away and want to be there to comfort their loved one, or for extended visits by relatives who live far away to maintain their connection… This flexibility will reinforce the project’s commitment to inclusivity and hospitality.

Find out more about The Association of Monsieur Vincent and the Domaine de Belletanche

See the Video presentation of the project 

If the project raises more than its goal, any excess funds received will be allocated to a similar project.