The Refood Movement, a Private Institution of Social Solidarity with over a decade of experience, aims to contribute to a fairer society where nutritional needs and food waste do not coexist.

In carrying out this mission, the Movement also fulfills a second objective: to make a significant contribution to a more sustainable society and a better future for our planet.

If it were a country, food waste would be the third largest emitter of CO₂ in the world (after the United States and China), since about one-third of all food produced globally for consumption is wasted or lost (in Europe alone, one-fifth of food is wasted). Meanwhile, one-eighth of the world’s population suffers from food insufficiency.

How are these objectives achieved? By rescuing tons of perfectly good food, eliminating waste and feeding those in need through a true human bridge between surplus and necessity, with the involvement of the entire local community. Beyond turning waste into nutrition, it also transforms the lives of those involved, fostering a circular and supportive economy.

The Santo António hub, located at Rua de Santa Marta 55C, saves hundreds of kilos of food from being discarded by collecting: daily food products (fruit, vegetables, bread, pastries, groceries, etc.) from supermarkets; four days a week, prepared meals from hotels; and three days a week from pastry shops. There are also occasional collections at events organized by various institutions.

All the products collected would otherwise end up in the trash, but through them, Refood Santo António supports twenty vulnerable families in the parish. Food distribution to beneficiaries takes place on Mondays and Thursdays, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, at the hub’s premises.

At present, the lack of volunteers across both areas of activity prevents Refood Santo António from rescuing more food, as it is unable to carry out additional collections. Volunteers are only asked to commit two hours per week, but in the fast pace of modern life, unfortunately, very few people are able to offer this time on a regular basis.

If you are interested in getting involved:
E-mail: voluntarios.santoantonio@re-food.org