Together against poverty in Switzerland
No one should be excluded from participating in society because of poverty. Find out how Migros Culture Percentage supports associations and organisations in breaking down barriers for those affected and rethinking the way we deal with poverty.
Poverty in Switzerland
1.4 million
people in Switzerland live in poverty or are at risk. This corresponds to 16% of the population.
323,100
children in Switzerland are affected by poverty or at risk of poverty.
CHF 2,315
Individuals who have less than CHF 2,315 per month at their disposal are considered financially poor in Switzerland.
Photo: Nicolas Zonvi
Poverty excludes many people from social life. The entry fee to the swimming pool, concert tickets, public transport, membership of a sports club – these are all unaffordable. As a result, poverty often exacerbates loneliness and social isolation.
Jessica Schnelle Head of Social Affairs, Social Affairs & Culture Department, Federation of Migros Cooperatives
In her interview with THE PHILANTROPIST on 26 June 2025, Jessica Schnelle discussed factors that put people in Switzerland at risk of poverty.
Poverty in Switzerland: how Migros Culture Percentage gets involved
Migros Culture Percentage strengthens people and organisations that are committed to equal opportunities and an inclusive society – for example, through calls for funding proposals, collaborations, and activities on the topic of poverty.
Funding
Do you have a project that enables people affected by or at risk of poverty to participate in social life more easily?
Find out more about the funding programmes and explore projects that have been supported by Migros Culture Percentage in previous calls for proposals.
Cooperation
Migros Culture Percentage supports the International Movement ATD Fourth World.
The organisation is committed to overcoming poverty in Switzerland and fosters exchange between people with and without experiences of poverty.
Awareness
What do you think about poverty?
Gain a deeper understanding of poverty in Switzerland and help to break down prejudices.
Sources: Federal Statistical Office (status 2023) and Caritas Zurich (2024)
Do you have any questions about Migros Culture Percentage’s commitment to poverty or would you like to get involved yourself? Isabelle Ruckli, Social Affairs Theme and Project Manager, is happy to help: isabelle.ruckli@mgb.ch
Photo: Adobe Stock
