More demand for food assistance in Córdoba as donations decline

The Archbishopric of Córdoba has raised concerns over the increasing demand for food assistance and a corresponding decline in donations, highlighting a growing challenge for local organizations. Officials from the Church and the Banco de Alimentos report a sustained rise in the number of people seeking help, alongside a drop in the availability of donated food. This trend reflects a broader social crisis, with the middle class—once a reliable source of donations—now requiring assistance to meet basic needs.

The recent poverty estimates, released by the Ministry of Human Capital, indicate a 26.9% poverty rate in the third quarter of 2025. These figures, derived from the National Council for Coordination of Social Policies and the Permanent Household Survey, show a decrease in the number of people classified as poor compared to previous years. However, the government has emphasized that over 12 million people have exited poverty since the start of the current administration, a claim that has sparked debate over the methodology used to measure progress.

Amid this discussion, organizations on the ground report a different reality. The Banco de Alimentos in Córdoba serves as a direct indicator of the growing need for food assistance. The organization collects and distributes food to soup kitchens, feeding centers, and social entities, but it now faces increased pressure due to the changing demographics of those seeking help. The strain on resources has become more pronounced as the demand for assistance continues to grow.

The situation underscores the importance of community support and the role of local organizations in addressing social needs. As the Archbishopric of Córdoba warns, the middle class, which previously contributed to food donations, is now part of the group requiring aid. This shift highlights the urgent need for continued generosity and the expansion of support systems to meet the evolving demands of the community.

The Church and other ministries have long been at the forefront of providing practical help to those in need, reflecting a commitment to neighbor-love and mercy. As the demand for assistance grows, the call to action remains clear: to support those in need through tangible acts of compassion and generosity. The biblical principle in Matthew 25:35 reminds us that caring for the hungry and the poor is an essential expression of faith and love.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)