Caritas Polska, the country’s largest Catholic charity, is providing food assistance to people facing difficult living conditions while also helping them develop the skills they need to become more self-reliant. One of its key initiatives is the European Funds for Food Aid programme, co-financed by the European Union.

The programme’s primary objective is to support people who are struggling to make ends meet and are unable to provide themselves and their families with adequate, nutritious food.

Food Aid Is Only the Beginning

For Caritas Polska, providing food is not enough to offer lasting support. Food donations and hot meals served in soup kitchens are therefore complemented by a range of free workshops aimed at helping participants overcome difficult circumstances, become more independent and manage their household budgets more effectively. The workshops also focus on practical, everyday skills tailored to the participants’ individual needs and circumstances.

Subprogramme 2025

The initiative is being carried out as part of Subprogramme 2025, which has been running since January. Figures for the first half of the year show that more than half of the targets set for the end of 2025 have already been met. In terms of food distribution, 7,207 tonnes of food — 53% of the annual target — have already reached people in need. More than 200,000 people have received support, representing 72% of the target. The educational component is also progressing steadily. A total of 751 workshops, or 56% of the planned number, have been held, with 16,000 people taking part, accounting for 52% of the annual target. By the end of the year, the total value of donated food products, including transportation costs, is expected to exceed PLN 105 million (24 million Euro).

Who Is Eligible for Assistance?

Assistance under Subprogramme 2025 is available to individuals and families experiencing difficult living conditions who meet the applicable income criteria. The monthly income threshold is PLN 2,676.50 for a single person and PLN 2,180.95 per family member. For most beneficiaries, a referral issued by a Social Welfare Centre is required to receive a food parcel. In the case of people experiencing homelessness, eligibility is determined by employees and volunteers of 30 archdiocesan and diocesan Caritas organisations. Food parcels are distributed through a network of 38 regional warehouses, which work with more than 800 local food distribution points across the country.

Nearly 90 Products in One Parcel

A single food parcel contains nearly 90 different products, providing a varied selection designed to meet essential nutritional needs. Altogether, the food provided amounts to more than 48 kilograms of products per person.

For Caritas Polska, the programme is therefore about more than putting food on the table. By combining food assistance with education, practical skills training and support for greater independence, it aims to address both the immediate and longer-term needs of people facing hardship.

willian_2000, pixabay.com

By Family News Service / Piotr Kowalczuk