Groupe SOS is a large non-profit association based in Paris, founded in 1984 by Jean-Marc Borello. Initially established to support individuals struggling with addiction and those affected by HIV/AIDS, the group quickly expanded its activities by integrating other associations and responding to public calls for projects. Over four decades, it has grown into one of Europe’s leading social enterprises, now comprising more than 650 entities employing around 22,000 people and reporting a turnover of approximately 1.4 billion euros in 2022.
The organisation’s activities are diverse, structured around sectors such as health, social solidarity, care for seniors, employment, youth, international action, ecological transition, and culture. Groupe SOS runs hospitals, nursing homes, addiction treatment facilities, support centres for vulnerable youth, refugee assistance programmes, and sustainable businesses.
Recent projects reflect this breadth: in 2023, it launched La Maille, aimed at helping young adults leaving social care avoid homelessness. In response to the Ukrainian refugee crisis, it became the leading operator for the reception of Ukrainian refugees in the Paris region. Other notable actions include the provision of safer consumption spaces for drug users and the reopening of Têtu, a major French LGBT publication.
While praised for its scale and innovative approach, the group has sometimes faced criticism regarding governance and transparency. Nevertheless, with its headquarters in Paris, Groupe SOS continues to influence the French social sector and addresses exclusion using a vast network of services and advocacy initiatives.