Rifugio Massi closes in Val di Susa amid funding cuts

The Rifugio Massi in Oulx, Alta Val di Susa, officially ceased operations on September 1, 2026. Managed by the Fondazione Talità Kum since 2018, the facility served as a primary transit point for thousands of migrants traveling toward France.

The closure is attributed to the end of the state of emergency and the subsequent loss of institutional public funding, which rendered the maintenance and operational costs unsustainable for the foundation. As a result, staff have been dismissed and the premises are being closed.

In response, local volunteers have formed a structured association called Sentieri Solidali ODV, officially established on August 9 by 45 founding members. To maintain support in the region, volunteers have partnered with Rainbow4Africa and Diaconia Valdese to operate a temporary station using containers and gazebos. This mobile setup provides medical and legal support, food, clothing, and essential mountain equipment to those crossing Alpine passes.