Food is being distributed from a food aid point on Helsinginkatu in Helsinki. Photo: Emmi Korhonen / Lehtikuva
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More people in Finland are turning to food aid, but there is less food to give, according to a new report by the national food assistance platform Ruoka-apu.fi.
The Ruoka-avun tilannekatsaus report, published this week, found that 73% of food aid providers saw an increase in demand during 2024. Families with children, young people, and immigrants, including those who fled the war in Ukraine, were identified as the fastest-growing user groups.
At the same time, 63% of providers reported a decline in the availability of surplus and waste food from supermarkets. Although some of the shortfall has been offset by school and central kitchen leftovers, the quality and variety of food have deteriorated.
“Rising demand is linked to cuts in social security, higher unemployment, and rising living costs,” said Laura Kumpuniemi, project manager at Ruoka-apu.fi. “There is serious concern among food aid providers who are witnessing acute need on a daily basis.”
The report underlines growing pressure on the food aid system, which depends heavily on volunteer labour. In 2024, over 6,600 volunteers helped deliver food across the country. But uncertainty around funding and changes to subsidised employment are threatening the sustainability of operations.
The role of Finland’s new regional wellbeing services varies by area. While some regions collaborate effectively with food aid networks, others have seen a drop in financial support and employment opportunities for those working in the sector.
Beyond handing out grocery bags, food aid also provides spaces for human contact, peer support, and community. The report notes that many recipients rely on these services not just for food, but also for social connection.
The findings reflect a wider shift in the role of food aid, which is increasingly becoming a permanent part of Finland’s social safety net.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
