More than 70 migrant job seekers are currently sleeping in Gullino Park, located in the town of Saluzzo in northern Italy’s Piedmont region. These individuals, mostly from African countries, have arrived in search of seasonal work in the fruit-picking industry. Their growing presence and lack of shelter have sparked concern from both residents and local authorities, prompting an emergency community meeting on July 17.
The meeting, held at the office of the prefect, brought together a wide range of stakeholders. Prefect Mariano Savastano chaired the discussion, which included local government officials, social service organizations, and aid groups such as the Red Cross, Caritas, Monviso Solidale, and the Distretto del Cibo della Frutta. Saluzzo’s Mayor Franco Demaria was also present. The aim was to quickly find both immediate and long-term housing solutions for the migrants currently sleeping rough.
Prefect Savastano explained that the migrants in the park are those who do not yet have employment contracts, which means they are excluded from the formal accommodation services supported by government projects and funding programs like the PNRR. “This is a social issue, not just a matter of security,” he emphasized during the meeting, stressing the need for humanitarian rather than solely policing solutions.
In response, several emergency measures were introduced. Public bathrooms in the area will now be opened during key hours and will be cleaned regularly under the supervision of the town council. Authorities will also increase contract checks to ensure that migrants who secure work are moved into available facilities. Furthermore, Caritas will expand its accommodation capacity by installing two container shelters, raising the number of available beds from 27 to 45.
Additional solutions are also being explored. One possibility includes reopening a homeless shelter in nearby Savigliano that was used during the winter months. Mayor Demaria proposed moving up the opening date of the shared dormitories, originally scheduled for August 4, to provide shelter earlier. These mid-term efforts aim to provide migrants with safer, more structured options than sleeping outdoors.
The Saluzzo town council has demonstrated its commitment to supporting migrants and announced its readiness to host half of the group currently in Gullino Park. They are also calling on nearby municipalities to assist by housing the remaining migrants. Prefect Savastano agreed to evaluate this approach and may coordinate a formal agreement to divide the responsibility among the surrounding towns.
In the long term, there are talks of creating a designated space equipped with basic amenities to offer an alternative to the park. Authorities are considering seeking financial support from bank foundations and introducing rules to discourage rough sleeping while promoting dignity and safety.
As Saluzzo continues to face the annual arrival of migrant job seekers during the fruit harvest season, this situation highlights the urgent need for coordinated support systems, long-term infrastructure, and inclusive policies to protect the rights and well-being of migrant workers.