Number of Belgians relying on food banks declines slightly

The number of Belgians seeking assistance from food banks has decreased slightly compared to the peak in 2022, according to Piet Vanthemsche, president of the Belgian Federation of Food Banks. However, meeting demand remains challenging, as donations from the industry have also declined.

In 2022, food banks saw a significant surge in demand, with over 210,000 Belgians seeking help. The high inflation, rising energy costs due to the war in Ukraine and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to many people struggling financially.

This year, the number of people relying on food banks has dropped to just over 200,000, a slight decrease. “While the number has fallen, the demand remains extremely high”, Vanthemsche said. 

Food banks strive to provide those in need with the equivalent of five meals per week, but this is no longer always possible. The number of food donations from the industry has seen a slight reduction. Vanthemsche also noted a decline in financial donations compared to previous years. “However, we are still receiving more donations than in 2019. Awareness has increased due to COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine,” he added.

Across Belgium, more than 700 local organisations process food surplus from retailers and supermarket chains. For food safety reasons, the food banks do not accept donations from individuals.

On Christmas Eve, the food banks will serve a festive meal to those unable to afford it through the ‘De Langste Tafel’ (the Longest Table) initiative, which is taking place across the country. By Tuesday afternoon, 37,648 meals had been donated for the event.

^{Food distribution at the Brussels/ Brabant foodbank © BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE}