Fondazione Mater
Budget
€1,200,000
EP Access
0
accredited persons
Staff
2
2 FTE
EU Grants
None
Mission & Goals
Fondazione Mater is a Geneva-based non-profit foundation established in 2020. Its mission is to promote social inclusion through food systems, ensure access to adequate and balanced nutrition for people in situations of vulnerability or social exclusion, and reduce food waste through circular and regenerative practices. The foundation operates at the intersection of social policy, food systems, and sustainability. Its core activities include: Provision of nutritionally balanced meals to food-insecure populations in partnership with local social services and civil society organisations. Operation of a social restaurant model (“Refettorio”) combining market-based activities with publicly accessible solidarity services, where paid services contribute to financing free meals. Development of programmes addressing food waste through recovery, transformation, and redistribution of surplus food. Training and professional integration initiatives in the hospitality sector, targeting people
EU Legislative Interests
Fondazione Mater engages with European Union policy frameworks related to food systems, social inclusion, and sustainability, with a focus on the recognition and implementation of the right to food. Its activities are connected in particular to the following legislative and policy areas: European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) – “Food is a Human Right for All!” Advocacy for the introduction of an EU legal framework recognising the right to food, including mechanisms for accountability, access to adequate nutrition, and coordination between Member States. EU Farm to Fork Strategy (European Green Deal) Contribution to discussions on sustainable food systems, including food waste reduction, fair access to healthy diets, and strengthening short supply chains. EU Food Waste Reduction Targets and Circular Economy Action Plan Engagement on policies aiming to prevent food waste, promote redistribution of surplus food, and support circular food practices. Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Interest in reforms linking agricultural subsidies to social outcomes, sustainable practices, and equitable access to food. EU Social Policy Frameworks (including the European Pillar of Social Rights) Focus on policies addressing poverty, food insecurity, and access to essential services, including adequate nutrition. Public Procurement and State Aid Rules related to food services Engagement on enabling social and sustainable food models (such as social restaurants) within public procurement frameworks. Food information, nutrition, and public health policies Interest in measures promoting access to safe, nutritious, and balanced diets, particularly for vulnerable populations. Fondazione Mater’s engagement consists of contributing expertise from operational experience, participating in civil society coalitions, and supporting policy dialogue with EU institutions and stakeholders.
Interests Represented
Does not represent commercial interests
Member Of
https://www.materfondazione.com/foundation#Partners
Organisation Members
https://www.materfondazione.com/foundation#Partners
Additional Information
here the latest financial statements, audited https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/650880761ca75e8ba886bdaa/69c634629f42f6666a7b6026_ECHO%202025%20-%20Comptes%20audit%C3%A9s.pdf
Commissioner Meetings
No recorded meetings with EU commissioners.