In a remarkable display of solidarity and generosity, the latest autumn food drive in the Czech Republic has shattered records by collecting a staggering 624 tons of goods. The donations, comprising 562 tons of food and 62 tons of essential hygiene products, mark the most successful event in history, providing a potential 1.124 million meal servings, according to Miroslav Dinga, a representative from the Czech Trade and Tourism Association.

This exceptional achievement is not the end of the drive; it continues in e-shops until November 21st, with organizers hopeful of surpassing the 700-ton milestone. The collection process has been diverse, allowing people to contribute in physical stores across commercial chains, including Rossmann, dm drugstore markt, and Teta drugstore networks. Additionally, online supermarkets Rohlík and Košík, along with the e-shops of Tesco and Billa chains, played a significant role by offering electronic vouchers or various aid packages.

Chairman of the Czech Federation of Food Banks, Aleš Slavíček, expressed gratitude, highlighting that Czech citizens demonstrated their compassion for those facing difficult circumstances. The involvement of over 5000 volunteers underscored the nationwide commitment to making a positive impact.

The initiative encouraged people to purchase and donate essential non-perishable items such as flour, sugar, pasta, rice, legumes, oil, long-life milk, baby food, meat, canned goods, instant soups, and hygiene products like shampoos, soaps, diapers, pads, toilet paper, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. These donated goods are now being transported to food bank warehouses, where they will be distributed to charitable organizations, cities, and towns to benefit those in need.

The autumn food drive stands as one of the most significant material charity events in the Czech Republic, involving thousands of volunteers, store employees, and non-profit organizations from across the country. The Ministry of Agriculture’s financial support underscores the government’s commitment to sustaining and fostering the impactful work of food banks in the nation.

Article by Prague Forum