Father Damiano Home: Volunteers & 1,000 Meals Served | [City/Region]

A ‘Gray Van of Solidarity’ Delivers Hope-and Dignity-to Italy’s Growing Number of Needy

A vital lifeline is navigating the streets of an Italian city, bringing not just sustenance, but a crucial sense of dignity to an increasing number of people facing hardship. The “Padre Damiano da Bozzano” association, operating out of a Capuchin convent in Massa, delivers approximately 1,000 hot meals each month via a well-recognized gray van.

As darkness falls, the van follows a consistent route, stopping at the train station, along Viale Roma, near supermarkets, and even reaching homes in outlying areas-from the Borgo and ponte to the Ronchi, spanning from the mountains to the sea.This mobile soup kitchen isn’t offering gift packages, but a essential necessity: a hot meal.

Did you know? – The “Padre Damiano da Bozzano” association has been operating for years,adapting to the changing needs of the community.It began as a small initiative and grew due to increasing demand and dedicated volunteers.

The operation is a testament to community spirit, fueled by the dedication of around 50 volunteers. According to the association’s president, Desiderio Antonioli, “We live on alms,” relying on self-financing dinners, membership fees, and private donations. Five to six volunteers work at the stove five days a week, while approximately ten others handle meal distribution. Even the friars themselves step in to help when volunteers are unavailable. The service operates year-round, without interruption, even on christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day, recognizing that hunger knows no holidays.

The demand is meaningful. On average, over 250 meals are distributed weekly. Though, providing this essential service comes at a considerable cost. In 2024 alone, the association spent €4,000 on disposable containers-a necessary expense to ensure hygiene and respect for those being served. Additional costs include cutlery, fuel, and ongoing maintenance for the used van, which frequently requires repairs.

Pro tip – Supporting local organizations like Padre Damiano da Bozzano can be as simple as donating time, food, or funds. Even small contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.

The association is named in honor of father Damiano da Bozzano, a Capuchin missionary friar, and embodies his commitment to Franciscan spirituality. The Capuchin convent, once a hub for young friars, has opened its doors to the community, becoming a center for both practical aid and cultural enrichment. Alongside the meal distribution, the association hosts cultural initiatives, meetings, and courses, believing that culture can also be a form of gift.

Yet, the most impactful moment remains the daily encounter between the van and those who await it.Antonioli acknowledges the bittersweet nature of this scene,stating,”It’s nice to help – but it’s also humiliating to see someone queuing to eat.” The growing number of individuals seeking assistance is particularly concerning, as it increasingly includes Italians who have recently fallen on hard times.

Reader question – What other ways can communities address the root causes of food insecurity and poverty, beyond providing immediate assistance? Share your thoughts.

The association’s goal extends beyond simply providing a meal. It aims to send a message to the wider community-especially those who are fortunate-to remember those less so.”Don’t forget the last ones,” Antonioli urges. “Even a small gesture counts: a greeting, a word, a packet of pasta.” The greatest danger, he emphasizes, is indifference.

A fundraising campaign has been launched to address the rising costs and ensure the continuation of this vital service. The association hopes to raise enough money to cover the cost of repairs to the van and to continue providing disposable containers,ensuring that those in need receive a meal with dignity. The campaign aims to highlight the increasing need within the community and encourage