Social technology to ensure food security in urban centersABSTRACT
The study explores solidarity kitchens as a strategic social technology to combat hunger and food insecurity in Brazilian urban centers. These initiatives, originating from social movements and consolidated through the Zero Hunger Program (2003), were institutionalized by Law 14,628/2023 and Decree 11,937/2024, which regulate the National Solidarity Kitchen Program. Solidarity kitchens provide quality meals and promote social inclusion, community empowerment, and sustainable practices. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they played a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for food. However, they face challenges such as dependence on donations, discontinuity of public policies, and lack of funding. The study recommends expanding the National Solidarity Kitchen Program, enhancing stakeholder coordination, strengthening partnerships with small-scale producers, and fostering sustainability. Finally, the research emphasizes that solidarity kitchens are essential for promoting food security and social justice in Brazil.
Keywords:
solidarity kitchens; food security; food redistribution; social policy; policy analysis