Background
The Raval (Barcelona) neighbourhood has a high percentage of undocumented migrants, homeless people and high unemployment numbers. Marginalisation has increased following the pandemic and the current inflation; their needs have amplified, in particular basic food.
Activities
The project responds the food needs in an holistic way, including elements of immigration formalities, employment, accommodation, and social ties. In the solidarity grocery (with a system of token), on a weekly base, users are free to buy the food they best liked (including toiletries and cleaning products). Their food shopping is also a time where they can share with the shop assistant (read it social worker) any other needs than food. Emphasis is also put on the healthy use of the food available at the grocery (expiring date, different ways of cooking) when users are invited to cooking workshops.
Results
About 1.400 people call upon for their food needs, 10 undocumented migrants were assisted in the application and issuing of their resident permit, and signature of a one-year work contract. In their stopover to the social grocery and their participation at the workshops, the beneficiaries have a chance to improve their Spanish skills, maintain an healthy diet and made friends to help them overcome loneliness and isolation.