The study shows that while food donations are financially of secondary importance to social organizations, they have a substantial social impact. They enable the enhancement of existing social services, the creation of new offerings, and significantly ease access to counseling and support for people affected by poverty. The role of food as a "gateway" for social work, social integration, and community building is particularly emphasized.

Methodologically, the investigation is based on an impact analysis with a mixed-methods design, combining qualitative interviews with a quantitative survey of nearly all the organizations served in Vienna. The results underscore the added value of the cooperating food bank model as an important complement to the welfare state's provision system.

Author Christian Grünhaus emphasizes: "When people think of food banks, they reflexively think of those affected by poverty and food distribution. The impacts at the meso level of social organizations have not been the focus until now and are more diverse than previously thought."

Tafel Österreich
Zur Studie (Open Access)