20 Years of Caritas Solidarity Event - A Bright Symbol of Unity with Those at Risk of Poverty
02.12.2025 | from Caritas Switzerland
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02.12.2025, In December, regional Caritas organisations are organising the national event 'A Million Stars'. By setting up candle installations in public spaces, Caritas creates a visible sign of connection with people at risk of poverty. The event takes place regionally on different days and is supported by around 100 partner organisations such as parishes, youth groups, associations, and civil society initiatives.
The traditional event is a fixed part of Caritas' annual program: For 20 years, Caritas' cantonal relief works have been drawing attention to the issue of poverty with the 'A Million Stars' campaign. All participating organisations create a light action at a central location on a day in Advent - on squares, at Christmas markets, or in churchyards. These carpets of light, created by the communal lighting of candles, symbolise cohesion and humanity. Additionally, many event locations offer a family-friendly, contemplative supporting program.
Poverty is often invisible; many people feel isolated, especially during the Advent and Christmas season. This action is therefore a visible sign of solidarity - with each other and with those who have less.
Poverty in Switzerland remains a reality
Even in 2025, poverty will remain a relevant issue in Switzerland. According to the latest figures from the Federal Statistical Office, around 708,000 people in Switzerland are affected by income poverty, which corresponds to a rate of 8.1% of the population. Another 336,000 people are considered at risk of poverty, even though they are employed. Overall, around 789,000 people live in a working-poor household. A person affected by poverty has less than 2,315 francs per month at their disposal.
You can find all locations of the 'A Million Stars' event at caritas-regio.ch/einemillionsterne
Caritas Regional Offices: The various Caritas organisations in Switzerland are independent, autonomous associations. They work in their respective regions for families affected by poverty and socially disadvantaged people, regardless of their nationality and beliefs.
Media contact
Andreas Reinhart, Media Spokesperson Caritas Zurich
Tel. 079 429 38 58, a.reinhart@caritas-
zuerich.ch
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Caritas Switzerland
Caritas Switzerland prevents, alleviates, and fights poverty in Switzerland and worldwide in about 20 countries. Caritas Switzerland is an independent association based in Lucerne and a member of the international Caritas network, which includes 160 organisations worldwide.
Together with the regional Caritas organisations, Caritas Switzerland is committed to people affected by poverty in Switzerland: families, single parents, the unemployed, working poor. In the areas of poverty alleviation and asylum and integration, Caritas Switzerland offers a wide range of services.
Worldwide, Caritas provides emergency aid in disasters and is engaged in reconstruction. With its projects in development cooperation, Caritas is committed to income, climate, and migration for children and adults.
Caritas advocates for a solidarity-based society and a policy that takes into account socially disadvantaged people at home and abroad. It is committed to analyses and statements on climate, social, migration, and development policies.
Note: The "About Us" text is taken from public sources or from the company profile on HELP.ch.
Source: Caritas Switzerland, Press release
Original article published on: 20 Jahre Caritas-Solidaritätsanlass Ein leuchtendes Zeichen der Verbundenheit mit Armutsgefährdeten