Bogotá has reactivated its “Plato Solidario” initiative to combat food insecurity and childhood hunger during the holiday season, according to the Mayor’s Office of Bogotá. Led by First Lady Carolina Deik, the campaign bridges the public and private sectors to reduce food waste and support vulnerable families across the Colombian capital.
Feria EVA Edition and How the Campaign Works
The current phase of “Plato Solidario” features a dedicated activation space at the Feria EVA holiday event in the Parque de la 93, including Pavilion 94 and Pavilion Home & Decor near 94th Street and 13th Avenue. The initiative operates during two distinct windows: until December 14, and returning from December 17 to 21. Visitors at the design, fashion, and gastronomy market can purchase campaign vouchers to support local relief efforts. According to the Mayor’s Office of Bogotá, patrons at participating partner restaurants can utilize a “2×1” model where paying for two dishes allows the diner to consume one, while the value of the second funds meals for food-insecure households. Alternatively, the Colombian Red Cross Bogotá Section enables digital contributions through its Plato Solidario Virtual platform, where donors can purchase digital vouchers to fund direct food distributions for children.
Misión Nutrición and Private Sector Partnerships
Launched in April 2024, “Misión Nutrición” is coordinated by First Lady Carolina Deik in strategic partnership with the Bogotá Chamber of Commerce (CCB), the Colombian Red Cross Bogotá Section, and various private enterprises, as stated by the Mayor’s Office of Bogotá. The program focuses on redistributing food surpluses, delivering grocery packages to high-risk populations, and promoting responsible consumption practices. Over the past year, the broader strategy has distributed more than 365 metric tons of food to children and families across eight localities, initially deploying in Kennedy before expanding into Suba, Bosa, and Fontibón.
Food Insecurity Statistics in Bogotá
Institutional data indicates that food access remains a critical challenge despite recent administrative progress. Despite this reduction, residents still struggle to maintain consistent access to a sufficient and balanced diet. Furthermore, chronic childhood malnutrition impacts roughly 15% of children under the age of five across the city, with notable disparities persisting between different urban localities.
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