Summary
Programs for food and basic material support 2021-2027 from European and National funding focus on support through food products and hygiene materials to the vulnerable groups in Bulgaria. The food security in Bulgaria also includes food assistance to the indigent people implemented through charitable actions on volunteering bases as well as food waste reducing. Food banking is an effective tool for combating hunger by providing assistance to vulnerable groups, using mainly the food waste elimination via donation of the unused food. Volunteering is essential for food-saving initiatives in relation to food security. The food banking model creates sustainability in the long-term support, especially important during extreme circumstances such as economic crises and pandemics. Food banking regulations are imposed by the Food Act and VAT Act to exempt the donated short-term food from VAT. Bulgarian Red Cross established several food banks, delivering durable food by the work of volunteers. Bulgarian Food Bank is a main operator of certified by quality and origin food, saved from waste or recycling in animal food, and provided to the social sector. Internet platforms for food saving in Bulgaria were created recently.
A social innovative initiative is establishing of a food patronage by volunteers to collect freshly prepared food from the food chains before closing, and redistribute by express delivery to the needy. Social innovation initiatives include food security activities expressed by nonprofit assistance via public support, NGOs, social enterprises and provided by food banks, churches, community centers, and other local sites. This study aims to describe the social model for food assistance to those in need in Bulgaria, expressed through charitable organizations focused on food security.