The Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD) 2014–2020

The Operational Programme for aid to the most deprived persons defines the principles for food aid in the EU

The Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD) provides food or basic material assistance in 2014-2020 to those in need.

The purpose of FEAD is to promote social integration in the European Union and reduce the number of people living in poverty and at risk of social exclusion. The specific aim is to alleviate the worst forms of poverty by providing material support. FEAD will not replace other measures taken in the Member States to prevent poverty and social exclusion.

The total funding of the Operational Programme for European Aid for the Most Deprived in Finland is €26.5 million for the period 2014–2020. The EU will fund 85 per cent of this sum, a total of €22.5 million. The national counterpart paid by the state is 15 per cent, or €4 million.

Implementation of the Operational Programme

Member States have submitted an operational programme for the funding to the European Commission for the implementation of the Fund. In Finland, the implementation of the Operational Programme for European Aid for the Most Deprived will focus on food aid to alleviate the lack of food among the most disadvantaged people. The programme also implements measures to support social inclusion, such as communication of information about the services and projects in the public and third sector, and guidance, advice and support for using these services.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment is responsible for FEAD in Finland, and the Agency for Rural Affairs for the implementation of the Operational Programme. The Agency for Rural Affairs is responsible for procuring the food, its intermediate storage and transport, and forwarding the food to partner organisations, which distribute it to those needing food aid mainly through voluntary work. From the point of view of the person receiving food aid, this practice is not different from the earlier food support.

Further information: Petra Metsälä