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

1. Weekly planning: menu and ingredient needs defined 5–7 days ahead.

2. Collection: partners confirm surplus availability; volunteers pick up and log items.

3. Cooking: sessions are facilitated, with clear roles (prep / cooking / cleaning).

4. Sharing: meals are shared on-site and, when allowed, distributed via pre-identified community channels.

5. 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.