Thessaloniki, 06/02/2025

Lidl Hellas and the Odyssea Youth Center Thessaloniki continue to offer “A Meal of Joy” to our fellow humans in need

With more than 5,300 food portions and the support of 200 volunteers, the initiative continues dynamically in 2025, strengthening vulnerable social groups and promoting sustainability.

Lidl Hellas and the Odyssea Youth Center Thessaloniki are pleased to announce the successful completion of the first cycle of the initiative “A Meal of Joy.” This initiative, which began in September 2024, is implemented weekly and offers substantial help to the most vulnerable social groups of Thessaloniki. The action has been warmly embraced by the local community, reinforcing the spirit of solidarity and offering.
To date, more than 5,300 portions of hot food have been offered, while 200 volunteers have participated in the initiative, dedicating time and energy to support our fellow humans. This initiative has supported bodies such as the Organization Against Drugs (OKANA), the Open Day Center and the Homeless Shelter of the Municipality of Thessaloniki, as well as the Social Service Syn-Anthropos Arsis, the Arsis Streetwork, the Hosting Structures for Unaccompanied Minors, families living on the poverty line, homeless individuals, and people in rehabilitation.

Lidl Hellas covers the operational costs of the initiative and offers fresh ingredients for the preparation of meals, confirming its commitment to social solidarity and sustainability. At the same time, with its support, the work of Odyssea is strengthened, reinforcing the local community and offering solutions to real needs.
On December 17, 2024, volunteer-employees of Lidl Hellas participated in a special action at the Odyssea Youth Center Thessaloniki, within the framework of the company’s corporate social responsibility program. Together with Odyssea’s Social Kitchen, they prepared and distributed 200 portions of hot food and melomakarona (Greek Christmas cookies). The portions were delivered to the Organization Against Drugs (OKANA) and the Iris Women’s Center, further strengthening the efforts to support our vulnerable fellow humans.

The initiative also includes the participation of youth from Thessaloniki in interactive cooking workshops, which take place at the facilities of the Odyssea Youth Center Thessaloniki. With a central focus on zero waste policy and under the guidance of an experienced chef, participants have the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills related to sustainable cooking. Their participation can serve as a starting point for further engagement with the professional field of cooking, through the free educational programs offered by Odyssea.

With the commitment of Lidl Hellas and the dedication of the Odyssea Youth Center Thessaloniki, the “A Meal of Joy” initiative will continue to be implemented in 2025, aiming at real support for the vulnerable social groups of our city.

Lidl Hellas, with consistency and sensitivity, continues to place people at the center of its social actions, promoting sustainability and strengthening the collective effort for a better society.

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