An alliance to fight hunger and support vulnerable communities
Megasuper Corporation, one of the country’s leading supermarket chains, announced a strategic alliance with the Food Bank of Costa Rica, a non-profit organization dedicated to collecting and channeling food to people in vulnerable conditions. This collaboration aims to strengthen the collection and distribution of essential food items nationwide, making it easier for customers to directly participate in the cause of food security.
Collection points in supermarkets
In the first stage of the partnership, Megasuper will enable 42 supermarkets as collection centers where customers can donate basic food items while shopping. The plan foresees that, in a second phase, the number of collection points could expand to up to 84 locations across the country, allowing broader coverage and greater public participation.
Citizen participation and regular donations
In addition to installing collection points, the initiative includes in-store information campaigns to encourage customer participation. Donated products — such as staple grains, canned foods, and other essential goods — will be managed by the Food Bank and distributed through social organizations that work directly with communities affected by poverty and food insecurity.
The proposal also includes direct product donations from Megasuper and a plan to make regular contributions, reinforcing cooperation between the private sector, community organizations, and civil society.
Poverty context and the importance of food security
According to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) cited in the announcement, around 15.2% of Costa Rican households live in poverty, representing approximately 915,000 people. This highlights the importance of initiatives that strengthen food security and reduce gaps in access to healthy and nutritious food.
Food security is a key component of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, which seeks to end hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition for people of all ages.
About the Food Bank of Costa Rica
The Food Bank of Costa Rica, founded in 2012, specializes in rescuing food and essential goods donated by private companies to assist people and families at social risk. It works in partnership with community and social organizations that ensure food reaches those who need it most.
Official and informative sources
- Food Bank of Costa Rica — Institutional mission, data, and ways to support its work against hunger.
- National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) — Poverty and socioeconomic data in Costa Rica.
- United Nations — Sustainable Development Goals framework, including SDG 2: Zero Hunger.
