Hot meals for the needy: A new edition of the Easter campaign, launched
The Social Mission "Diaconia" has launched the 17th edition of its Easter Campaign, titled "Meal of Joy," which is a solidarity project. The food collected during this campaign will be used to provide hot meals to the elderly and those in need throughout the year. On April 4, Palm Saturday, a large product collection event will take place in nearly 150 stores nationwide.
Every day, around 150 elderly and needy individuals come to the mobile canteen in Chisinau. For many of them, the hot meal they receive is not just food; it is also a reminder that they are not forgotten.
"It helps us a lot. We receive a very small pension, which is practically not enough for basic necessities. Prices have increased significantly; I would say they are astronomical. We are very satisfied. I have been coming here for food for several years now, and we are happy that they take care of us."
"Food is life, movement, action, and I am grateful to Diaconia for their generous initiative. They are making a meaningful gesture for our community. The pension is inadequate, but I will not resort to theft. I have heard that they come here, and may God reward them a thousand times."
"I bring everything fresh, good, and hot. I am both a beneficiary and a volunteer here when necessary."
Last year, around 1,000 student and high school volunteers, senior volunteers, and corporate teams participated in this initiative. This year, the call remains the same: civic involvement for a united community.
"On April 4, wear yellow vests in stores and encourage people to donate food products, or come to the mobile social canteen and help distribute hot lunches," said Daniela Groza, coordinator of the Volunteer Department at the Diaconia Social Mission.
"I chose to get involved because I believe that every small gesture makes a big difference. Even a little food and a kind word can significantly impact people's hearts."
"The most important motivation for this activity is seeing the change I make, witnessing smiles on people's faces, and knowing that the food we collect genuinely brings joy to them."
Last year, the initiative collected products to prepare 44,000 hot meals for those in need.
"This canteen operates from Monday to Friday, distributing 150 lunches each day. Unfortunately, we can only offer very limited support to these individuals, just a hot meal, which addresses a primary need," said Anna Ceban, communicator at the Diaconia Social Mission.
In 2025, a record amount of nearly 86,000 kilograms of products was donated, collected from 120 stores in Chisinau and 33 additional localities across the country.
