It’s an idea so simple it sounds dumb, the team at Refood Portimão admits with a laugh. “But that’s why it works,” they say. What began as a modest local effort has become a lifeline for families in need and represents a symbol of social connection.

Each year, the Portimão group rescues six to eight tons of perfectly good food from supermarkets, restaurants, and cafés – food that would otherwise end up in landfills – and redirects it to households struggling to make ends meet.

But the work doesn’t stop with hunger relief. Refood combats exclusion and solitude by challenging everyone to be a part of it. As one volunteer explains the charity’s ethos: “We have many stories, but our favourites are the ones where some families can find their ground and no longer need the support we provide. Many of them are immigrants.”

These moments – when support becomes self-sufficiency – are among the charity’s proudest achievements.

Powered Entirely by Volunteers

Refood Portimão runs entirely on volunteer power. “Since our organisation is 100% volunteer, we rely on them totally. Without volunteers, there is no Refood,” the team says.

Dozens of people give their time to collect food, organise baskets and deliver supplies, while others handle coordination, outreach, and social media. The team includes professionals, students, and retirees – each contributing a few hours whenever they can. Some help once a week; others have become part of the charity’s backbone.

One volunteer, now 86, has been involved since the beginning. “He’s available to do administrative work, to drive someone, or simply to be there with a nice word for anyone who needs it. That’s a true volunteer!” the team says fondly.

A micro-local mission with a global impact

While Refood chapters operate throughout the Algarve, each adapts to its own environment. “We all have the same end mission and, in general, work in similar ways,” the Portimão team notes, adding:  “However, this is a micro-local project, and therefore it’s adapted to our reality here in Portimão – which is very different from Faro, for example.”

It is this very flexibility that allows each hub to meet the specific needs of its neighbourhood while staying true to the core idea of saving food and feeding people.

The result is a win-win for society and the planet. “Since we save several tons of food from the landfill every year, the community would be missing a project that serves us all environmentally, socially, and economically,” the team says when asked what would happen if Refood didn’t exist.

They are justly proud that reducing food waste helps cut greenhouse gas emissions and landfill use, while redirecting food provides immediate relief for families navigating economic strain.

Transformative for volunteers, too

Purpose and belonging lie at the heart of Refood’s volunteer experience. “Refood is for everyone – you might see a ten-year-old working beside a retiree with the same goal. It builds community and purpose,” they say, recognising the huge value.

The work also sharpens practical skills, another special benefit to those involved. “Our teams must be resourceful, creative, and quick – those are skills worth cultivating,” they add. Volunteers leave with confidence, friendships, and a renewed sense of meaning.

Getting started couldn’t be easier. “If you think you know how much food is wasted each day, come see for yourself. Try one two-hour shift,” they urge. “You’ll see how much difference two hours can make – for the community, and also for yourself.”

Quiet impact, lasting warmth

Refood remains refreshingly unpretentious. “Our operation is basic and mostly logistic, so there’s no fancy moments or big recognitions,” the team says. “We do what we believe is the right thing for our city and our people, and I can assure you that after one shift you’ll have a big smile and a fuzzy feeling in your heart.”

Refood reminds us that true richness lies in connection – neighbours helping neighbours, strangers becoming friends, and simple acts keeping families fed and hope alive. For those seeking to give back, the invitation is clear: come for two hours, and you might just leave with something priceless.

Words: Elisabeth Leonard