In Martinique, Guadeloupe and Saint-Martin, solidarity remains a quiet force. It is embodied in everyday gestures, in the attention paid to others, and in the shared conviction that no vulnerability is inevitable. It is in this spirit that ALEFPA (Association Laïque pour l’Education, la Formation, la Prévention et l’Autonomie – Lay Association for Education, Training, Prevention and Autonomy) has been pursuing a simple and humane mission for over sixty years: to accompany each person, at every stage of their life, towards greater autonomy and dignity.
An historic presence and solid Caribbean roots
Present throughout France, ALEFPA helps 20,000 people every year, thanks to 250 establishments and over 4,000 employees.
In the Caribbean, ALEFPA is firmly established in the Caribbean:
- – In Guadeloupe as early as 1981, with the Institut Médico-Éducatif Denis Forestier ;
- – In Martinique since 2012, with the Rosannie Soleil Housing and Social Reintegration Center ;
- – Saint-Martin, since 2020, with the CHRS Le Manteau.
A total of 37 ALEFPA welcome and support 2,763 beneficiaries, supported by 311 full-time equivalents. This network of local players embodies a solidarity rooted in the realities on the ground.
Two days of action to strengthen social ties
October 28 and 29, 2025, ALEFPA organized two major days in Martinique, marked by the visit of Chairman Daniel Dubois and Managing Director Olivier Baron.
On October 28, the representatives visited the Legal Representative Service for the Protection of Adults (SMJPM) in Fort-de-France. The meeting provided an opportunity to showcase the work of local teams who support vulnerable adults in their legal, social and human affairs.
The following day, ALEFPA and the Martinique Real Estate Company (SIMAR) have signed an APL Foyer agreement in Schœlcher to develop new social and inclusive housing solutions. This partnership is aimed at the elderly, the disabled and the most disadvantaged, and is part of the national program IDRA supported by the” National Solidarity Fund for Autonomy (CNSA) and the National Old Age Insurance Fund (CNAV).
“These two days symbolize our determination to anchor the work of ALEFPA into the realities of Martinique, alongside the region’s institutions and social players”, declared Daniel Dubois.
“Working with our partners to ensure that every vulnerable person has access to decent housing and appropriate support,” added Olivier Baron.
Lakou Rosannie Soleil, symbol of a shared habitat
In Fort-de-France, the Lakou Rosannie Soleil illustrates this Caribbean philosophy of concrete solidarity.
Owned by SIMAR and managed by ALEFPA, the site, owned by SIMAR and managed by ALEFPA, is home to 57 housing units, including an accommodation and social reintegration center, a halfway house and a hostel.
The word lakou – the shared courtyard of Creole houses – takes on its full meaning here: a collective space where mutual help structures daily life.
Two new ALEFPA independent living residences, also known as autonomous residences, are set to open in Martinique between 2026 and 2027, further extending the inclusive dynamic already underway on La Réunion.
A demanding social context and local responses
In Martinique, almost a third of the population lives below the poverty line, and difficulties in accessing housing particularly affect low-income pensioners, people with disabilities and families in very precarious situations.
Faced with this situation ALEFPA works closely with local authorities, the Regional Health Agency (ARS), the Family Allowance Fund (CAF), the Regional Directorate for Economy, Employment, Labor, and Solidarity (DREETS) and social landlords.
Its governance includes directors from the French overseas territories, ensuring that its actions are in tune with local needs.
Inclusion and creativity in Guadeloupe and Saint-Martin
In Guadeloupe, solidarity is literally cultivated: the Work Assistance Facility and Service (ESAT) La Ravine Bleue de Pointe-Noire has launched an aquaponics food garden in partnership with the Butterfly Effect.
Disabled workers learn to produce differently, in a way that respects nature and the circular economy.
In Saint-Martin, the work of ALEFPA extends to prevention and awareness-raising. Artist Esy Kennenga spoke to young people about violence against women, illustrating the link between culture, education and inclusion.
Marie-Galante: guaranteeing medical and social continuity
Another highlight of 2025: the takeover of the Association of Parents and Friends of Children with Special Needs (APAEI) of Marie-Galante by ALEFPA confirmed by the Pointe-à-Pitre court on August 22, 2025.
This decision made it possible to maintain 73 jobs and ensure the continuity of medico-social support, with the support of the ARS and local authorities.
A responsible and humane approach, true to the vocation of ALEFPA‘s vocation: to never break the link with the most vulnerable.
Sustainable, committed solidarity
Committed to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) approach, ALEFPA combines social inclusion, respect for the environment and innovation.
From Guadeloupe to Martinique, its initiatives weave a network of sustainable solidarity where the social, health and educational sectors combine to recreate links.
Through these actions, ALEFPA confirms that in the Caribbean, solidarity is not just a word, but a way of life.
In the lakouresidences, gardens and shelters, the association continues a tradition of proximity and humanity.
A discreet but profound commitment that reminds us that the Caribbean is built above all on human warmth, respect and renewed trust.
