Šent, the Slovenian Association for Mental Health, opened the store about two years ago. The European Social Fund and the Slovenian Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities chipped in with 290.000 euros. The funds were used to pay for the launch, the rent and the salaries. However, the funding period ends in August.

Sotra director Iva Poropat said at a press conference that they will remain in business because their contracts with suppliers are still in place. Moreover, they already issued about 4.500 cards that allow socially disadvantaged people to buy essential goods at reduced prices. They currently employ five people, but they will have to lay off one of them.

T. H.; translated by D. V.