Europe is one of the richest regions in the world. And yet over 96 million people in the EU (roughly 22% of the total EU population) are at risk of poverty or social exclusion. For some households, even affording nutritious food can be a challenge, which can have serious health and social consequences. This is where ‘food banks’ step in. They collect surplus food and distribute it to people in need. But how is it that people in one of the richest regions on the planet need to rely on food banks?
FEBA President Mr Jacques Vandenschrik participated to the discussion from “Debating Europe” and talked about the role of Food Banks to fight hunger and food waste.
“We, as food banks, can help 12.8 million people with the enormous support of more than 48,000 charities. So, we don’t even reach half of the people who are materially severely disadvantaged. This means that these people cannot afford a balanced meal every other day. So, if you ask me why there are still food banks, I think the answer is obvious: because they are needed. And we would like to see a society without food banks and without charities, but it will take some time to get there.” Said Mr Vandenschrik.
Read the full debate here.
