Athens Municipality Extends ‘Meal of Love’ to 1,300 Vulnerable Citizens on Easter Sunday
Athens, Attica, Greece – April 12, 2026 – The Municipality of Athens, through its Reception and Solidarity Centre (KYADA), once again demonstrated its commitment to social welfare by organizing its annual ‘Meal of Love’ for homeless and financially vulnerable citizens on Easter Sunday. The event, held at the Rouf Indoor Basketball Court, successfully distributed 1,300 full meals, offering not only sustenance but also a sense of care and human connection to those most in need.
Mayor Doukas: “No one is alone in our city”
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas underscored the significance of the initiative, emphasizing that the city “opens its arms” on a day when hope and offering hold particular weight. He stated that the ‘Meal of Love’ represents a substantial act of social care, enhancing dignity and social cohesion, and sending a clear message that the city leaves no one behind.
KYADA President: “Daily act of support for the vulnerable”
Nikos Chrysogelos, President of KYADA, highlighted that supporting vulnerable groups is a continuous priority. He noted that the Easter meal is the culmination of a coordinated effort that unfolds daily, aiming to assist thousands of fellow citizens living below the poverty line.
Traditional Easter Feast with Sustainable Practices
The menu for the 1,300 distributed meals featured a traditional Greek Easter spread, including lamb with roasted potatoes, seasonal salad, fruit, tsoureki (Easter brioche), red eggs, and soft drinks. This year’s event also incorporated sustainable practices, utilizing reusable bags, wooden cutlery, and composting and recycling bins to minimize its environmental footprint.
A portion of the meals was also distributed to various hospitality structures across the city, such as the Multipurpose Homeless Centre, the Athens Hearth, My Athens, Doctors of the World, and Equal Society, further strengthening the capital’s social protection network.
Broad Support from Businesses and Organizations
The festive meal was generously sponsored by Lidl Hellas, with organizational support from the City of Athens Culture, Sports and Youth Organization (OPANDA), the Municipal Police, and the Directorate of Cleaning and Recycling. The crucial contribution of numerous organizations, businesses, schools, and associations, through donations and offerings, significantly bolstered KYADA’s work during the Easter period.
A Network of Solidarity Beyond the Holidays
The community’s response affirms that solidarity in Athens extends beyond symbolic gestures, constituting a continuous collective effort. The ‘Meal of Love’ serves as a characteristic moment of this mobilization, reminding everyone that social cohesion is built through daily acts of support and participation.
