São Miguel food bank collection drops but demand rises

The Banco Alimentar Contra a Fome de São Miguel collected about 26 tonnes of food during its March campaign, three tonnes less than last year. President Luísa César says more people took part but donated smaller amounts per bag, reflecting tighter household budgets. The food bank now distributes around 700 baskets monthly, up 12% from 2025, as more working households with income struggle with rising housing, food and energy costs. Milk remains chronically scarce. About 65% of referrals come from regional social services, with distribution handled by roughly 50 partner associations across the island.