Food Distribution
Volunteer in Portugal on this impactful program focused on supporting vulnerable communities through food distribution!
Based on São Miguel Island, this community support program is ideal for those who are passionate about helping others and making a direct impact. Volunteers work alongside a dedicated nonprofit to prepare, cook, and distribute meals to families and individuals in need, ensuring they have access to nutritious food in a safe and welcoming environment.
Depending on the project you’re involved in, your tasks may vary. In some projects, you’ll have the chance to engage in all aspects of meal preparation, cooking, and distribution, while in others, you might focus on collecting food from local restaurants and directly delivering it to those in need.
This program is perfect for those with a desire to make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to building dignity, stability, and hope for a brighter future in the community.
Goals:
- Prepare Nutritious Meals: Assist in preparing meals that support healthy eating.
- Maintain Kitchen Hygiene: Help keep the kitchen clean and organized.
- Assist in Meal Packaging: Aid in packing meals for distribution.
- Distribute Meals: Serve and deliver meals to families in need.
- Ensure Timely Delivery: Help organize food delivery to ensure it reaches the right people on time.
- Support Meal Planning: Contribute to planning meals to meet nutritional needs.
How You Can Help
By joining this program, you will play a crucial role in providing essential meals to low-income families and the unhoused community.
Your support will involve a range of tasks, from preparing nutritious and balanced meals to ensuring kitchen hygiene and organization. You’ll also assist with the logistics of meal distribution, helping to serve and deliver food directly to those in need. Your contribution will provide comfort and nourishment, making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals, and ensuring that they have access to the nutrition they need to thrive.
Your efforts will help bring both sustenance and hope to those who need it most.
Requirements
Love Volunteers welcomes all those 18 years and over who wish to dedicate their time and energy to support the local community of São Miguel Island. This hands-on program is ideal for individuals passionate about making a positive impact, whether you're pursuing a career in community development, education, health, or simply want to explore your interest in helping others. Whether you’re working with children, teens, or seniors, your contribution will directly support the island’s social inclusion efforts and strengthen its vibrant community.
Beyond this the project is open to all and does not require participants to have specific education, qualifications or experience, as you will be shown everything you need to know by your local project leader.
Importantly though, all applicants must first and foremost have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
- Emergency contact
- Passport
Project Location
São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, is a stunning mix of lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and crystal-clear lakes. The island’s natural beauty is highlighted by the iconic Sete Cidades, where two lakes sit in a dormant caldera, and the lush forests and cliffs offering breathtaking views of the ocean. The capital, Ponta Delgada, blends historical charm with modern life, where cobblestone streets lead to quaint squares and ancient churches.
The food here is a highlight, with local dishes like the famous "cozido das furnas" and fresh seafood. After a day of volunteering and exploring, relaxing with a drink and delicious Azorean cuisine is the perfect way to unwind.
Start Dates & Duration
This project has arrivals on SUNDAYS. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 1 week to 12 weeks.
Spaces on this project are limited and therefore subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.
Arrival & Orientation
The local team meets volunteers on arrival and transport is provided to the hostel to settle in.
On Monday a comprehensive orientation session takes place to cover the culture and customs, language basics, safety guidelines and practical information as well as an overview of the programs and volunteer experience. A 2-hour responsible guided city tour is also included - perfect for getting to know Ponta Delgada and meeting fellow volunteers and local staff.
- Arrival Day: SUNDAY
- Departure Day: SATURDAY
- Arrival Airport: João Paulo II Airport, Ponta Delgada (code PDL)
Accommodation & Meals
The volunteers will be accommodated in a youth hostel, located on the beautiful island of São Miguel in the Azores, offering a unique experience for those looking to explore the stunning natural beauty and rich culture of the region.
With a prime location right in the heart of the city, the hostel offers female or mixed rooms with bunk beds, ensuring comfort and privacy for all. Additionally, each room is equipped with high-speed wi-fi to keep you connected during your stay. Volunteers can also enjoy a spacious and cozy living room, perfect for relaxation and socializing, as well as a designated breakfast room to start your day with a delicious meal. The provided breakfast features the best local delicacies from São Miguel, fresh, traditional products.
Please note that the hostel does not feature a kitchen for guest use.
Volunteers can enjoy some amazing meals in a local restaurant, a short walk away from the hostel. The meals bring the authentic flavors of Azorean home cooking in a cozy, family-friendly setting, where the volunteers can enjoy traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Volunteers can also take the meal away and enjoy it while watching the sunset.
Fees
That’s just USD 184 per day* for:
*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.
Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.
Additional Info