Food Solidarity Program: weekly community meals + surplus recovery partnerships and volunteer network
Goal: activate the Civic Kitchens with a consistent program that reduces food waste and builds social connection through shared cooking.
What we will do
Run weekly community cooking sessions in each kitchen (minimum 3 per week across the network).
Set up surplus food recovery partnerships with local markets and small shops, with a clear same-day collection and traceability process.
Create a volunteer + coordinator network for hosting, cooking support, and welcoming participants (with rotation to avoid burnout).
Organize intergenerational sessions and low-barrier workshops (budget cooking, seasonal meals, zero-waste recipes).
Establish a food dignity policy: respectful access, no stigma, and inclusive communication (community-first, not charity branding).
How it works
Weekly planning: menu and ingredient needs defined 5–7 days ahead.
Collection: partners confirm surplus availability; volunteers pick up and log items.
Cooking: sessions are facilitated, with clear roles (prep / cooking / cleaning).
Sharing: meals are shared on-site and, when allowed, distributed via pre-identified community channels.
Feedback: short participant check-ins to improve accessibility, timing, and comfort.
Expected results
At least 150 community meals served in the first 6 months of operation.
Reduced edible food waste from participating businesses.
More social connection for isolated residents and newcomers.
Notes: food redistribution will follow safety rules (allergens, cold chain) and local legal requirements. High-risk items will be excluded.
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