The Chamber of Deputies approved, with modifications, the bill for “Soup Kitchens and Community Centers” known as the “popular pots” project. It sought the allocation of resources so that civil organizations can continue with the practice.
According to data from the Ministry of Social Development (MDS), there are around 194 community kitchens at the country level.
Carlos Sebastián García, national deputy for the PPQ, highlighted the work of the popular pots during the pandemic.
“They stood out unfortunately because they arose as a result of solidarity in the face of the inability of state institutions to respond to food needs. This project arises in that sense”, he expressed.
He pointed out that this also guarantees that there are controls on the correct use of resources.
“Hunger does not wait. This is where the commitment of organized people who want to lend a hand with a plate of food to people in need is born. It is an immense gesture of a project that contemplates all aspects”, she mentioned.
Celeste Amarilla, a national deputy for the PLRA, affirmed in turn that the popular pots saved the Government during the pandemic.
The project establishes the allocation of G. 11 billion (US$ 1.6 million) for the Ministry of Social Development (MDS) annually for distribution in community centers. The Senate had first approved it in May of this year. Now, after the modifications, it goes back to the Senate for its study and consideration.
Among the modifications, it is established that these resources may not be cut in the event of any unforeseen event. In addition, they must come from their own resources and not from loans.
