(Vatican Radio) One of the many initiatives in favour of the poor that has sprung to life thanks to the wish of Pope Francis is an outlet providing medicines to those in need.

Close to the shower and hairdressing facilities which are open to homeless and indigent people under the St. Peter’s colonnade, is a “solidarity” counter which hands out medicines provided by the Italian “Banco Farmaceutico” whose mission is to respond to the needs of poor people.

The Vatican counter is one amongst 1.663 charitable entities in Italy that received donations of medicines by ordinary citizens on the National Collection Day last February 13.

Speaking on Wednesday for the launching of the outlet, the President of the “Medicina Sociale” Association that participates in the project said:  “We are proud to be able to contribute to the initiative promoted by Pope Francis to open a solidarity medicine counter in St. Peter’s Square. It is a gesture of true mercy to which we could not be indifferent”.

The 2016 XVI National Medicine Collection Day is currently present in 94 Italian provinces. However it aims to consolidate and expand its activities through the structured and continuous contribution of an ever growing number of volunteers and pharmacies to be able to respond more efficiently to the increasing number of requests it receives for medicines from charity organizations.

The National Day is promoted by the non-profit “Banco Farmaceutico Foundation” which also provides broader support to the poor.

It currently receives donations from over 30 pharmaceutical companies, from pharmacies and operates to recover unexpired medicines from private individuals.

(Linda Bordoni)