After a challenging year for many in New Caledonia, Teddy Plonquet, Komatsu New Caledonia’s Director of Human Resources, wanted to take action. Through Komatsu’s Live Your Dream (LYD) program, he’s helping a local organisation expand its vital support for people experiencing homelessness.
Live Your Dream is Komatsu’s initiative that gives employees the chance to support a community project or organisation they’re passionate about, with funding provided to help them bring their dream to life.
Teddy used his LYD grant to support Un Sandwich Pour Autrui (USPA), a grassroots organisation that provides food, hygiene items and care to people in need. USPA began five years ago when a father and daughter decided to share leftover sandwiches with those sleeping rough. Teddy says this simple act of kindness inspired a movement that now distributes hundreds of meals every week.
“My partner has volunteered with USPA since it started, and I do my best to support her however I can. When this opportunity came up to give back through my LYD grant, I couldn’t turn it down,” he says.
Through LYD, Teddy is helping USPA strengthen its outreach by:
• hosting an event dedicated to women in precarious situations, bringing together health and welfare professionals
• purchasing essential items such as tents, utensils and warm clothing
• preparing and distributing hygiene kits
• buying food and supplies to make meals for those in need.
Teddy says the need for support is growing fast. “Before the May 2024 riots, about 500 people in New Caledonia were homeless. That number has now risen to more than 750. Despite limited resources, USPA continues to serve around 200 people several times a week.”
When Teddy told the association about his LYD grant, they were overjoyed. “They were so happy because they finally have some resources for specific initiatives focused on women.
“Supporting people who are facing hardship is incredibly important to me. I’m proud that through Komatsu, we’re making a huge difference to those who need it most.”