Cape Verde Launches Digital Volunteer Initiative for Food Bank
The Donana Foundation of Cape Verde has officially launched a new volunteering program and a digital database in Praia, seeking to bolster its ranks to meet the growing demand for social services across the archipelago. Ana Hopffer Almada, president of the foundation, introduced the initiative at the University of Cape Verde (UniCV), emphasizing the need for a more structured network of participants.
A Move Toward Modernization
As part of the new initiative, the foundation is formalizing its volunteer corps by introducing official identity cards and a comprehensive database. Historically, the Donana Foundation—which oversees the Food Bank of Cape Verde and various youth outreach programs—has relied on a roster of over 500 supporters. This list will now be digitized through a strategic partnership with UniCV to streamline mobilization efforts.
“We decided to formalize this program and create a database to give our volunteers greater visibility. The truth is, we need many more of them,” Almada stated during the presentation.
The Power of Unpaid Staff
The foundation operates entirely without paid employees, meaning every delivery, campaign, and administrative task is handled by those donating their time. Current priorities include school holiday activities and summer camps for children, as well as ongoing logistics for the Food Bank. While the next major food collection drive is slated for October, the daily work of food distribution, citizenship education, and environmental training continues year-round.
“Everyone who is willing and able is welcome,” Almada urged. “The need is great, and our work only happens because of those who choose to contribute.”
Proposed Legal Reforms and Incentives
The event also highlighted potential changes at the legislative level. Adélsia Almeida, the Cape Verdean Minister of Family, Inclusion, Social Development, and Labor, revealed that the government is considering a review of the country’s 16-year-old volunteering law.
The proposed updates aim to align regulations with modern social dynamics. Minister Almeida also expressed interest in reviving the “volunteer passport” concept. This document would officially record a volunteer’s contributions, serving as a credential to enhance professional resumes and potentially granting holders privileged access to certain goods and services as a token of national gratitude.
Image: Pexels – Gustavo Fring
