In 2020, 69 mentally handicapped women and men were confined to two residential centres of the Gil Gayarre Foundation. These people have other illnesses and associated pathologies: heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, behavioural disorders, etc. Most of them have only the Foundation as their home and family. For many of them, this means that they are isolated and at risk in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. In order to provide them with the best support and protect them as much as possible from contagion, the Gil Gayarre Foundation made a very important effort of reorganization at all levels: places, staff, intensification of cleaning measures and personal ́hygiène, catering service, cleaning and disinfection of the facilities, etc. The Air Liquide Foundation contributed to the acquisition of basic hygiene and pharmaceutical equipment, personal protective equipment and to the cost of cleaning and disinfecting the centers.

In 2021, the Air Liquide Foundation is renewing its support to install fiber optics in all the Gil Gayarre Foundation buildings. This fiber connection reduces the digital divide and the social isolation suffered by the residents during the health crisis (communication with friends and families, virtual educational and cultural activities). It will benefit the 120 residents and the 450 persons followed by the Gil Gayarre Foundation.