The Social Mission “Diaconia” for the 15th consecutive year has launched the “Meal of Joy” social solidarity project in the Republic of Moldova through which it aims to sensitize society to the situation of needy people. The people who want to join the campaign are urged to donate non-perishable food on April 27, on the feast of Palm Saturday, which will later be distributed in the form of food packages or warm lunches to those in need, IPN reports.
Diaconia executive director Igor Belei said that this collective solidarity gives us the opportunity to have an answer to social challenges because the good is more resounding and impactful when it is experienced in common. Throughout its 15 editions, the “Meal of Joy” has become a platform for practicing and manifesting solidarity for thousands of young people,” stated Igor Belei.
EU Ambassador to Moldova Jānis Mažeiks said that the “Meal of Joy” is the longest running social solidarity campaign carried out in Moldova. Over all these years, hundreds of donors and volunteers came together and joined efforts to provide support to those who need it most. For the third consecutive year, the European Union supports this campaign. The European Union stands in solidarity and provides continuous support to vulnerable people in the Republic of Moldova. Together with civil society organizations, it supports vulnerable people to benefit from social services such as home care, canteen and social laundry, day care and rehabilitation centers, and many others. “Being united and solidary, we can bring the Meal of Joy into the homes of all those who need society’s support to overcome the difficulty they face today,” said the diplomat.
All those who want to support the project are urged to register as volunteers. Vice-rector for Economic and Financial Activity and International Relations at the Moldova State University Vladimir Dolghi, noted that this initiative is a big step for us as a nation. He encouraged the University’s students to participate and become volunteers. “I urge you to support this initiative and be close to vulnerable families, especially during theEaster holidays,” said Vladimir Dolghi.
It is advisable to donate non-perishable food products with a longer shelf life in the campaign, such as groats, oil, pasta, sugar, salt, canned food.
Financial donations in support of the cause can also be made online. With 20 lei, a daily warm lunch can be provided for a beneficiary of social canteens.
In 2023, products were collected in 120 stores in 21 localities, as a result of which more than 39 tonnes of food products were donated and distributed to people in need. This year, the collection will be organized in Chisinau and about 20 other localities.
