"It's like a global event." Antonello Spanu, director of Caritas Sassari , thus described the Christmas lunch held recently in the hall of the Daughters of Mary Foundation . Around 200 needy people of all nationalities attended, from Italians to Roma to Africans and Arabs. "For us, it represents a sign that we are placing the issue of rights at the center, of putting everyone at the same table and eliminating inequalities."

The number of people seeking help is increasing. "And in Sassari," Spanu continues, "the level of loneliness is growing, as is the huge housing and employment crisis. In this, we see that society is closing itself off because it's afraid."

Among those present were also young Arabs seeking accommodation and perhaps forced to squat in abandoned homes. Their names can't be mentioned, but their statements can. "I've been in Sardinia for three years," says one of them, "and everything has gone badly for me. I have a daughter, but it's not easy to see her."

Many men and women have suffered the tragedy of drug addiction and alcoholism, the traces of which are visible on their faces. There are moments of emotion when they recall their recent meeting with the Pope during another convivial gathering, in November at the Vatican. "Here I have found a home," says Mustafà, who has lived in Sassari for decades, "and discovered charity."

One of the cooks is Franca Masia, who worked with more than 20 people to prepare the Christmas lunch. "I've been cooking as a volunteer for Caritas for 11 years," she, originally from Romana, explains. "Their smiles are enough to say thank you."

Lots of smiles because, as mentioned, the number of needy people is increasing and the association's daily soup kitchen has reached 80 people.

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