At the beginning of the month, the European Commission published a summary report showing that support through the Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD) makes a difference to the daily lives of people suffering from the worst forms of poverty in the EU.

For the first time, this report involves the views of those receiving FEAD assistance. 97% of the respondents in the survey said that the support had made a difference or partial difference to them. Also accompanying measures (e.g. social inclusion activities complementing food aid) proved to be very useful or useful.

The Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD) supported 12.7 million people between 2014 and 2017 under assistance of 26 member states. The FEAD allows member states, through partner organisations like NGOs and Food Banks, to help the most vulnerable groups in society to take a first step out of poverty and homelessness. Importantly, FEAD reaches specific deprived groups which would otherwise not receive any assistance, highlighting its significance for member states in improving the lives of the worst off.

If you are interested in accessing the original summary report, please visit the European Commission’s web page.