South American Division

Humanitarian Project Distributes Lunch and Personal Care Items for Homeless Community in Brazil

One in four households in Brazil faced food insecurity in 2023, the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics states.

Brazil
Maycon Santos, with ANN Staff
Before meals, the group participates in a moment of reflection and Bible study. Action to assist people in socially vulnerable situations takes place at the Vila Isabel Adventist Church.

Before meals, the group participates in a moment of reflection and Bible study. Action to assist people in socially vulnerable situations takes place at the Vila Isabel Adventist Church.

[Photo: personal archive]

Amid the growing fight against hunger and social vulnerability, the SER Project stands out as an example of solidarity and community support. Every Thursday, around 200 people in socially vulnerable situations receive meals prepared with care and dedication.

For eight years, the SER Project has been an essential pillar in the Vila Isabel community in Brazil, not only feeding those in need but also offering dignity and care. With the support of around 20 volunteers, lunch box preparation begins at 8 a.m., including a nutritious menu of rice, pasta, meat, and vegetables.

Ana Guimarães helps in the kitchen preparing meals. "For me, it's gratifying. It's a way of giving back everything I've received", comments the volunteer.
Ana Guimarães helps in the kitchen preparing meals. "For me, it's gratifying. It's a way of giving back everything I've received", comments the volunteer.

In addition to food distribution, the SER project's commitment extends to essential services. From 2 p.m., the project opens its doors to offer baths and personal care, providing hygiene kits with towels, soap, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. Two volunteer professionals also offer haircut services, promoting comprehensive care for those living on the streets.

"Our goal is to offer more than just food. Each lunch box is a gesture of love and solidarity, aimed at rescuing the dignity of those in vulnerable situations", says Otacílio Alves, director of the SER Project. "We work in partnership with shelters and are always ready to help those who want to get off the streets and rebuild their lives", adds Alves.

Research by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) highlights the importance of this initiative. It reveals that one in four households in Brazil faced food insecurity in 2023. In the face of these challenges, the SER Project appears as a beacon of hope, contributing to improving the food security index in the community.

The project was highlighted live on TV Band's Jornal Voz do Rio:

The original article was published on the South American Division's Portuguese website.

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