The “la Caixa” Foundation and CaixaBank have launched the “No home without food” solidarity campaign in response to the current social and health emergency caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus. The aim is to collect as many food products and funds as possible to meet the needs of those who have been most affected by the current situation.
Starting from 1 April, all citizens will be able to make a financial donation to help vulnerable families that have been forced to turn to food banks. The “la Caixa” Foundation will contribute an initial 100,000 euros to help kickstart the initiative and help with the most urgent and immediate needs, further reinforcing its commitment towards social causes.
The total amount raised will be distributed among the 54 food banks that are members of FESBAL (Spanish Federation of Food Banks), who are appealing to the public to help them deliver support to those most in need. In 2019, food banks in Spain helped 310,000 families – over 1.1 million vulnerable people - by distributing over 144.5 million kilos of food, with the help of 7,300 charities.
A small contribution, but a great help
With a €2 contribution, Food Banks will be able to provide basic food products to a person for a whole day, and with a €20 contribution, they can support a small family for an entire week. Currently food banks urgently need to stock up on basic food items as well as children's products such as milk, considering that among users are over 41,000 infants.
The financial fallout from the coronavirus is already having a significant impact on society as noted by FESBAL which has seen a major increase in demand in recent weeks. In Spain more than 10 million people, 21.5% of the population, are at risk of poverty, according to the European Anti-Poverty Network (AROPE).
Food banks have had to find new ways of delivering a minimum level of service to those in need after the suspension of in person operations for food collection and other donations. Therefore, to maintain the necessary stock levels in their warehouses, they need to substantially increase the amount of food they buy and, to do so, they need greater financial resources.
The provisions are then distributed via social welfare and support organisations that are officially registered and approved by the authorities.
How can I participate?
From the 1st of April, you can make donations via: CaixaBank's network of ATMs - there are more than 9,000 throughout the country; CaixaBank NOW, through the app or website; and CaixaBank's corporate website, for non-customers.
Another way you can help is by sending an SMS with the word «ALIMENTOS» to 38014.
Contributions can also be made through the website www.ningunhogarsinalimentos.org.
