In response to the urgent need for assistance following the earthquake on June 16, 2023 in La Laigne, Cram-Chaban, and surrounding municipalities in Charente-Maritime and Deux-Sevres, insurers have made an unprecedented decision to support the victims. Nearly 150 families affected by the disaster will now have their temporary rental costs covered by their insurance companies, with about twenty insurers participating in this initiative.
The announcement was made by the Charente-Maritime prefecture on Thursday, highlighting a significant commitment to helping those affected by the earthquake. Many victims had been facing challenges with temporary accommodation costs while also repaying their property loans, leading to additional financial strain. The president of a victims’ collective, Matthieu Priez, described this situation as a “double punishment,” emphasizing the need for support.
Pressure from citizens, media, and politicians played a crucial role in prompting insurers to take action, with threats of public exposure pushing the issue to the forefront. The mayor of Cram-Chaban, Laurent Renaud, noted the involvement of elected officials, the prefect, and even the Prime Minister in addressing the victims’ needs. While the support is not retroactive, it will be provided on a case-by-case basis and for those in better financial situations, until their homes are fully repaired.
Matthieu Priez, who has been advocating for better compensation for victims of natural disasters, sees this commitment as a positive step forward. He expressed hope that the support provided to current victims will set a precedent for future disasters, ensuring that those affected receive the assistance they need. This initiative marks a turning point for the victims and serves as a reminder of the importance of community support in times of crisis.