Lima, Peru – In a Remarkable Initiative, ADRA Peru Tackles Post-COVID-19 Food Crisis
ADRA Peru, the national chapter of the Adventist Development and Relief Agency, has teamed up with the World Food Program (WFP) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for an innovative project aimed at aiding vulnerable communities in Peru in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative, known as the “Food Rescue – AYNI” project, focuses on food rescue and zero waste operations as its primary objectives.
Launched in February 2023, the “Food Rescue – AYNI” project has witnessed active participation from several corporations, which have contributed by rescuing surplus food and making generous donations. As a result of these efforts, ADRA Peru has successfully established a mobile food transportation unit with a capacity of 4.5 tons. To date, this initiative has delivered a staggering 200 tons of food, benefiting over 13,700 individuals. Additionally, it has provided training to the “ollas comunes” (common pots) on matters related to nutrition, safe food handling, and effective organizational management.
The “ollas comunes” represent community-managed spaces where food assistance is extended to individuals facing vulnerability, particularly those who lack the financial means to secure daily meals independently.
Integral to the success of this project is its volunteer program, dedicated to supporting the food rescue system. According to ADRA Peru, over 100 volunteers from the Seventh-day Adventist Church have wholeheartedly dedicated their time and efforts to contribute to the project’s mission. Notably, 65 percent of these volunteers are women, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to helping the most disadvantaged members of the community.
Under the guidance of project specialists, these volunteers have scoured various markets and supermarkets in search of food donations. Subsequently, they have facilitated the distribution of these supplies to various “ollas comunes” situated in impoverished areas within the districts of Villa María del Triunfo and Pachacámac, both located in Lima.
The South Peru Union (UPS) of Seventh-day Adventists has praised the unwavering dedication and effort of its church members who have selflessly assisted the less fortunate through these compassionate actions. In line with the teachings of Jesus Christ, this project epitomizes the spirit of outreach and communal support, and the UPS extends its prayers and blessings to every volunteer, leader, and specialist involved in this noble endeavor.