SOFIA – Nearly 600 homeless individuals in the Bulgarian capital have received essential food supplies through a joint initiative by Sofia Municipality and the Bulgarian Food Bank (BFB).
The effort, led by Deputy Mayor Nadezhda Bacheva, aims to support vulnerable residents in temporary accommodation centers while also reaching those living on the streets.
The campaign, which will continue until March 2025, extends beyond the city’s three shelters, ensuring that individuals who decline assistance or are unable to access shelters also receive much-needed aid.
According to Bacheva, homelessness is often not a choice, but extending a helping hand is. “We are not just providing food; we are showing these individuals that society has not forgotten them,” Bacheva stated. “Assistance is about more than survival—it is about preserving dignity.”
Aid Beyond Shelters
While the temporary accommodation centers serve as a critical refuge for many, a significant number of homeless individuals either cannot or choose not to stay in shelters.
Recognizing this, the Bulgarian Food Bank has been supplementing food distributions at St. Paraskeva Church, where over 120 people receive hot meals and drinks daily.
“Some people either cannot or do not want to stay in shelters, but that does not mean they should be left without support,” Bacheva emphasized.
The food donations, facilitated by BFB, are aimed at reaching as many people in need as possible, ensuring that no one is left without assistance during the harsh winter months.
A Long-Term Commitment
The initiative is more than just a temporary measure, according to Bacheva, who stressed the importance of rethinking how aid is provided to the homeless population.
“This is a step toward changing how we help. While we cannot resolve all problems, we can make the winter more bearable for hundreds of people. I hope this effort encourages more individuals and organizations to get involved,” she said.
The municipality has also urged citizens to report cases of individuals in need of shelter, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Reports can be made via the 24/7 Homeless Hotline at 0889301054, through the Social Services Directorate at 02/8035925 during working hours, or by calling 112 in emergencies.
As Sofia faces another challenging winter, the collaborative efforts of local authorities, charities, and volunteers serve as a testament to the power of community support in times of crisis.