The Gimnàs Social Sant Pau, with an 80-year history, underwent a key transformation a decade ago when it became a cooperative. This decision arose from the possibility of closure, with employees taking the reins of the facility. Over these years, they have faced difficulties such as two eviction attempts and played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for homeless individuals.
The threat of eviction dissipated when the City Council agreed to purchase the plot on Ronda de Sant Pau, a pact involving the building's owner and the Hàbitat3 Foundation, bringing relief to the cooperative's members.
“"For us, it was a turning point. In April 2020, Sant Pau opened its doors to an average of 200 people a day who came to shower and change clothes, and we quickly started distributing food as well."
Currently, the provisional facilities on Carrer de les Floristes de la Rambla, near La Boqueria, allow the activity to continue. The plan is to return to their original headquarters on Ronda de Sant Pau by spring 2027, also recovering the popular swimming pool.
The new project will maintain its social focus as a fundamental pillar. The goal is to reach 1,800 members, with the aim that 540 of them, 30%, will be at risk of exclusion and will not have to pay a fee. The director highlighted their commitment to listening to members, citing the creation of a non-binary changing room as an example.
To celebrate these ten years, an open party has been organized at the provisional location, bringing together neighbors, members, and volunteers to commemorate the work done in defense of the facility, social commitment, and its roots in the neighborhood.
