The Contribution of Food Banks to Social Solidarity and Positive Peace. The Italian Case

In Europe 271 FBs are currently working in 23 countries, associated to FEBA (Fédération Européene des Banques Alimentaires). The italian network was established in 1989 by Fondazione Banco Alimentare Onlus and today supports thousands of non-profit organizations that every day help poor people to extend access to food security. The experience of the FBN is an example of social innovation, which contributes to promote social solidarity and positive peace. The article uses information from administrative sources, connected to the ordinary activities of the FBN, as well as a set of data from a survey of a sample of non-profit organizations affiliated with the 21 regional FB’s.