Sustainability
Locanda alla Mano: a place for fine food and solidarity
Right in the heart of Milan you’ll find the Locanda alla Mano. Since 2013, guests have been served good food and the finest coffee here by very special young people.
The Locanda alla Mano, which goes back to a Repower Italy initiative, is first and foremost a beautiful locale in Sempione Park on the Viale Gadio (Piazza del Cannone). It’s a place to meet, relax and recharge. But it’s also a workplace to eight young people with a disability – a place where these special young people learn to overcome their difficulties and find their feet in the workplace. This is done in the context of a real business where they learn on the job to serve guests and work behind the bar.
“The idea of the project is to be able to offer these young people a regular working routine with pay,” explains Carlo Giuggioli, who is responsible for the project. “The work and the income give them a bit of autonomy.”
Repower first came up with the idea for the Locanda alla Mano in 2011. The project was implemented two years later. Repower found many friends and supporters on the way to realising this vision. The Locanda alla Mano is ultimately made possible in cooperation with the Cooperativa sociale Contè onlus and the AGPD associazione genitori ragazzi con Sindrome di Down. The project is under the patronage of EXPO, the Cariplo Foundation and the City of Milan, which is deeply committed to the Locanda alla Mano.
“The idea of the project is to be able to offer these young people a regular working routine with pay.”
Carlo Giuggioli, manager of the Locanda alla Mano project
“Guests at the Locanda alla Mano are ready to take their time. They’re not just served a perfect sandwich or a wonderful drink; they’re also given the opportunity to pause and reflect,” says Fabio Bocchiola, Head of Repower Italy, with conviction. Repower actively supports the project to this day and also ensures its financial autonomy.
The Locanda alla Mano is undoubtedly a special place where human values and high-quality food combine, served in a welcoming environment. The appealing architectural design is by Studio Rotta and revolves around a large steel hand, a symbol of opportunity, invitation and welcome, and also a reminder of the original craftsmanship.