The Port of Las Palmas becomes a solidarity hub enabling the donation of prepared and unserved food on board the Costa Fortuna to social entities in Gran Canaria
The Port Authority of Las Palmas has made possible the start of a new solidarity collaboration between Costa Cruises and the Food Bank Foundation of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, an initiative that strengthens the port’s commitment to sustainability, the circular economy and the well-being of citizens.
Since 2 January, and thanks to the coordination of the Port Authority with the tax and customs authorities of the Government of the Canary Islands, Regional External Health, as well as with the Customs Agent and the Port Agent, the food prepared in the kitchens of the Costa Fortuna that is not served on board can be safely and regulatedly donated to the Food Bank for subsequent distribution among local associations that support people in vulnerable situations.
These foods, which do not constitute a surplus but rather a valuable resource, acquire a new life through this initiative, demonstrating how port activity can generate a positive social impact beyond its logistical and economic function.
The launch of this project at the Port of Las Palmas is part of Costa Cruises’ Food Assistance Programme, active in 16 international destinations, and marks the incorporation of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria into a network of ports committed to solidarity and the reduction of food waste.
The President of the Port Authority of Las Palmas, Beatriz Calzada, underlined that “initiatives like this reflect a model of port management committed to sustainability, institutional cooperation and social well-being. That a cruise call can become an opportunity to support families and vulnerable groups is a clear example of the social value generated by our ports.”
Likewise, Calzada highlighted that “from the Port Authority of Las Palmas we will continue to promote projects that strengthen the link between the port and its surroundings and contribute in a tangible way to improving the quality of life of those who need it most.”
For his part, Luigi Stefanelli, Vice President of Global Sales at Costa Cruises, stated that “the start of this collaboration in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria represents a new step in our commitment to sustainability and the circular economy, made possible thanks to the support of the Port Authority and the Food Bank.”
