Brussels, Belgium — After a gruelling 2,700-kilometre journey spanning 308 municipalities, 71-year-old Leo Vercauteren concluded the first phase of his walk against poverty at Gaucheret Park in Schaerbeek, Brussels, urging Belgians to confront the growing issue of poverty in their country.
Vercauteren embarked on this mission on 13 June last year to spotlight the struggles of the impoverished and to encourage support for organisations fighting against poverty.
His walk, which will eventually cover 4,600 kilometres, is dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges faced by Belgium’s most vulnerable communities.
“I wonder how a wealthy nation like Belgium, a democracy, can tolerate poverty. My answer is ‘no’, it cannot,” Vercauteren declared.
He emphasised the need for urgent action to support organisations such as Netwerk tegen Armoede, Réseau Wallon de Lutte contre la Pauvreté, and 61 other local associations actively working to alleviate poverty.
Throughout his journey, Vercauteren made it a point to visit various local organisations aiding those in need. One of his stops in Brussels was at Chez Nous – Bij Ons vzw, a day centre that provides essential services for the homeless.
The centre offers not only meals and a place to rest but also vital social interaction for those without a permanent home.
Peter Vancutsem, the coordinator at Chez Nous – Bij Ons, expressed gratitude for Vercauteren’s efforts but also highlighted the grim reality of poverty in the capital.
“Chez Nous – Bij Ons strives to meet basic needs like social contact, a warm meal, and a place to recharge,” Vancutsem said.
However, he did not hold back in describing the dire conditions faced by those living on the streets.
He called the shortage of night shelter places and affordable housing “heartbreaking” and described the lack of prospects for people without legal residence as “painful.” His message was clear: “This must and can change.”
Vercauteren’s walk is not just a test of physical endurance but also a powerful statement against indifference to poverty. His initiative has already garnered attention and support from various communities across Belgium.
By sharing the stories of those he met and the challenges they face, Vercauteren hopes to inspire action and donations to organisations dedicated to combating poverty.
Members of the public wishing to support his cause can do so by donating through the website www.tevoetdwarsdoorbelgie.be.
Contributions will go directly to organisations such as Netwerk tegen Armoede and Réseau Wallon de Lutte contre la Pauvreté, which work tirelessly to provide aid and advocate for systemic change.
As he prepares to continue the remaining 1,900 kilometres of his journey through Belgium, Vercauteren remains resolute in his mission.
His walk serves as a reminder that, even in wealthy nations, poverty persists — and that it is the responsibility of both citizens and leaders to address it with urgency and compassion.
