Across Denmark, local volunteers are helping families facing financial hardship by distributing surplus food during the holidays. For many, these efforts have become a crucial way to bring warmth and dignity back to their Christmas celebrations.
Christmas Made Possible Through Shared Food
In the town of Fredericia, shelves overflow with donated groceries in the local branch of the food waste organization Stop Spild Lokalt, which means “Stop Food Waste Locally.” Volunteers are preparing for their busiest day of the year, the annual Christmas distribution. Stores across the country have contributed food that is near or just past its expiration date but still perfectly fine to eat. Some items have damaged packaging or simply come in excess due to overstock.
Because of these efforts, families who are struggling to make ends meet can collect a variety of goods, saving money that would otherwise be spent on groceries. For a single person on unemployment benefits or a low income, such as Mathilde Gormsen, this help can mean the difference between an empty fridge and a festive meal. It also allows her to afford small gifts for relatives and attend special family outings during the holiday season.
Volunteers Keep Spirits High
For volunteer coordinator Mette Meyer and her team, December brings intense planning and countless errands. They spend weeks arranging food pickups with local stores before employees leave for their Christmas break. Late into the evening, vans loaded with donations arrive, and volunteers must sort and refrigerate everything quickly before the doors open for distribution night.
Despite the chaos, the spirit remains positive. Smiles, hugs, and tears of gratitude remind the volunteers why they dedicate their time. The sense of community is strong, and for many helpers, the night before Christmas Eve feels like a celebration in itself.
This initiative also provides insight into the growing concern over the cost of living in Denmark. Many Danes continue to feel the squeeze of rising food and energy expenses, which has pushed more people to seek help from organizations like Stop Spild Lokalt.
When Food Waste Becomes a Lifeline
Stop Spild Lokalt operates branches across Denmark, where volunteers collect items that stores can no longer sell. Residents who use the service simply pay a handling fee of 35 kroner to cover operational costs. While the program is open to everyone, it primarily benefits those experiencing economic difficulties.
At the Fredericia school hall where the event takes place, families line up late into the night with reusable bags, waiting their turn to receive donated groceries, holiday snacks, and even decorations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. For some, it’s the only way to celebrate without financial strain.
Rising Demand Reflects Deeper Challenges
According to founder and director Rasmus Erichsen, Stop Spild Lokalt has seen steadily growing attendance throughout the year. In July alone, more than 13,000 people visited one of its “food oases,” marking an increase of about 20 percent compared with January. Volunteers report that more citizens now rely on surplus food to manage household expenses, which Erichsen finds both practical and concerning.
In Fredericia, Mette Meyer says the demand means more work but also more purpose. Even though the December 23 rush tests everyone’s endurance, she considers the evening one of her favorite traditions. After all, bringing people together over rescued food is what the holiday is truly about.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Cost of Living in Denmark – Comprehensive Guide for Expats
The Danish Dream: Best Grocery Stores in Denmark for Foreigners
DR: Overskudsmad redder julen for Mathilde: Jeg har lyst til at takke dem og kysse dem
