According to the latest Istat report, in 2024, 23% of the population in Italy is at risk of poverty or social exclusion—a figure that has increased compared to the previous year.
Concrete support for those in need
Every month, COOPI supports a growing number of families and elderly people in difficulty in Milan and the Varese area, by distributing food, baby products, and essential goods.
This activity is part of the “Fighting Poverty in Italy” project, mainly funded by the Organization through 5x1000 donations.
A growing need
The number of families benefiting from this service has increased significantly in recent years: from around 1,100 people in 2021 to almost double in 2024.
This rise is linked to inflation, which has eroded real household incomes, and the spread of “working poverty.” In Milan, according to Caritas Ambrosiana, over 23% of those seeking help are employed.
Elderly people living alone represent the group with the most significant increase.
A targeted and widespread intervention
Beneficiaries are identified through the municipal social services and home visits by COOPI staff.
COOPI works as part of a network and maintains ongoing dialogue with the QuBì programme, a citywide initiative promoted by the Municipality of Milan that brings together institutions, the third sector, and citizens to combat poverty. This collaboration helps monitor needs and coordinate effective responses.
The distribution of goods—partly supplied by Banco Alimentare—is carried out at home in the most vulnerable cases.
Since 2021, regular distribution has taken place in Piazza Selinunte, in a space assigned to COOPI by the “Luci a San Siro” project (promoted by ALER, in collaboration with the Politecnico and the Municipality of Milan).
Over time, COOPI’s food distribution activities have reached several neighborhoods in Milan and its outskirts. Today, the project continues with the support of Banco Alimentare, within the framework of the European FEAD programme (Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived), approved by the European Commission and implemented by Italy’s Ministry of Labour and Social Policies via AGEA (the Agency for Agricultural Payments).
New spaces, new networks
Thanks to the project’s success, COOPI opened a second distribution point in the Gallaratese district, within its headquarters.
In addition to serving logistical purposes, this space fosters direct contact between staff, beneficiaries, and those who wish to contribute personally.
Following the positive response to the first two centres, a third one is planned for the Quarto Oggiaro district.
Since 2024, COOPI has coordinated the Food Security Working Groups of Municipality 7 and Municipality 8, helping to connect local organizations, optimize logistics, and integrate surplus food recovery into a widespread distribution network.
The new “Hub Selinunte” – food distribution logistics center for Municipality 7 has been established within the framework of Milan’s Food Policy.
Two staff members and ten volunteers now work at the site, regularly reaching over 2,000 people.
Beyond food: listening and guidance
Delivering a bag of food is just the first step in building a relationship with people.
For this reason, COOPI has also opened an information desk in the Piazza Selinunte space, open Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
Here, people can share their difficulties, receive assistance in obtaining SPID (the Italian digital identity system), and be directed toward neighborhood associations specializing in job reintegration, parenting support, and legal assistance.
A mission that continues
The “Fighting Poverty in Italy” project carries on the legacy of Father Vincenzo Barbieri, COOPI’s founder, who personally began this work in the Milan area in 1999.
After his passing, the Organization took over, continuing the mission with the support of volunteers and full-time staff who coordinate all activities.
Want to help?
Support the project at ? donacibo.coopi.org