Food insecurity is a growing problem throughout the world, disproportionately affecting low-income individuals. In the Portuguese capital city of Lisbon, known for its grand colonial architecture and Mediterranean climate, one can volunteer to deliver meals to the city’s food insecure population. About 19% of Portugal’s population is food insecure, a figure that has increased since the early 2000s. Volunteers work with a local community organization to help eliminate food waste from Lisbon’s restaurants and supermarkets by packing meals for vulnerable populations throughout the city. Usually working during the dinner hours from 6:30 to 10 p.m., volunteers will pack and serve meals for up to 300 people per day, helping to feed families, the elderly and those experiencing homelessness. This trip is organized by International Volunteer HQ and costs $455 for a one-week stay. International Volunteer HQ focuses on providing volunteer travel opportunities around the world by partnering with local community organizations focused on long-term positive impacts.
IVHQ is a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas 7 years in a row. It is a cost-effective option with some programs as low as $20 per day with accommodation and meals included. They are a Certified B Corporation, 100% carbon neutral and every project aligns with a UN Sustainable Development Goal.