As demand surges, Stelios Foundation brings vital support to France’s food banks

A major donation from the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation is helping Restos du Cœur meet surging demand in the Nice region, with over 700,000 ready-to-eat meals delivered to support thousands of families across France.

On Tuesday 11th November, the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation visited the Restos du Cœur food distribution centre in Nice — one of the busiest in the region — as part of a renewed effort to tackle food insecurity head-on. The visit marked a new stage in the Foundation’s commitment to helping France’s most vulnerable communities access healthy, practical meals.

In the Alpes-Maritimes, over 22,000 people now rely on the charity’s services, including 1,600 families in Nice alone. Over the past year, demand has risen sharply — up 30% — with more and more people seeking help for the first time.

730,000 meals for those who need them most

The Foundation is donating 730,000 Bonduelle vegetable cans to food banks nationwide. These meals are rich in nutrients, simple to serve, and designed for people who may not have access to a kitchen or even basic utilities.

The donation includes full logistical support — covering transport and delivery to ensure the meals are ready to be distributed straight to local families.

Community support that makes a difference

During the visit, François Chantrait, director of Restos du Cœur Alpes-Maritimes, welcomed the support, saying, “This initiative brings comfort to thousands of people in our region. It shows that support is there — and that we’re not alone in this work.”

Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, took time to meet volunteers and staff on site, thanking them for their dedication. The Foundation’s latest donation builds on several years of collaboration with Restos du Cœur and is designed to strengthen food aid networks ahead of what is expected to be a difficult winter.

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Photo courtesy of Stelios Philanthropic Foundation