Solidarity in Action: “Herz am Herd” Initiative Supports Team Österreich Tafel

On May 30, 2026, the Team Österreich Tafel in Graz became a focal point for community support as chefs Jaimy Reisinger and Philipp Dyczek joined forces for the “Herz am Herd” initiative. The two Styrian chefs prepared a traditional potato goulash to provide direct, nutritious assistance to those facing financial hardship.

This project is part of a broader collaboration between the Austrian Red Cross and Hitradio Ö3, designed to raise public awareness of social infrastructure while providing immediate food relief to individuals and families in need.

Addressing Food Insecurity in Austria

The demand for food assistance remains significant across the country. Current data indicates that approximately 1.69 million people in Austria are at risk of poverty or social exclusion, with roughly 261,000 individuals living in absolute poverty.

The impact of these initiatives is particularly visible at the local level. In Styria alone, the Red Cross operates more than 25 distribution centers. During the 2025 calendar year, these centers reached a record high, distributing over 1.2 million kilograms of food to more than 80,000 customer contacts. Nationwide, the program relies on the dedication of approximately 6,000 volunteers across 127 locations to support tens of thousands of people on a weekly basis.

More Than Just Food Assistance

Siegfried Schrittwieser, President of the Austrian Red Cross, highlighted the deeper social value of the Team Österreich Tafel. Beyond the physical provision of groceries, the initiative serves as a vital source of stability and hope for families navigating difficult circumstances. For the chefs involved, the “Herz am Herd” campaign represents a fusion of culinary craft and social responsibility, emphasizing that acts of service are essential to a supportive community.

Expanding the Reach of “Herz am Herd”

Launched in 2026, the “Herz am Herd” initiative connects top-tier culinary professionals with social projects throughout Austria. The program is designed to highlight the importance of solidarity through active participation. Following the event in Graz, the campaign is scheduled to continue with additional cooking initiatives across all Austrian federal states throughout June. The project will conclude with a dedicated charity event held in Lower Austria.

Key Takeaways

• Collaborative Effort: “Herz am Herd” is a joint initiative between the Austrian Red Cross and Hitradio Ö3.
• Rising Demand: With over 1.69 million people at risk of poverty in Austria, the need for food distribution services continues to climb.
• Volunteer Strength: A network of 6,000 volunteers sustains the operation of 127 distribution sites across the country.
• Ongoing Campaign: The initiative will host cooking events in every Austrian province through the end of June 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of “Herz am Herd”?

The goal is to increase public awareness regarding food poverty and support social institutions like the Team Österreich Tafel through the participation of professional chefs.

How can people access support?

Individuals experiencing financial hardship can reach out to the Austrian Red Cross to locate their nearest Team Österreich Tafel distribution center.

How is the initiative funded and operated?

The program is a collaborative effort utilizing a large volunteer base and community partnerships to distribute donated food items to those in need.