Brest student lives rent-free in senior residence

In Brest, France, an 18-year-old university student named Louna Guivarch is living in a senior residence without paying monthly rent. Through the ‘Generation Part'ages’ program, launched in 2017 by the group Domitys, students can access free accommodation in exchange for social interaction with elderly residents.

Guivarch resides in a 45-square-meter, two-bedroom apartment that includes utilities, access to a gym, and a swimming pool. In return for the zero-euro rent, she commits 15 hours per week to assisting the residents, which includes tasks such as accompanying them to the supermarket and providing companionship.

Residents have noted that the presence of young people provides valuable company. For the students involved, the program offers a solution to high European rental costs, requiring only that they cover their own grocery expenses.