Our Foundation has had a very successful year. However, a few weeks before our Christmas food distribution, the Budapest Public Space Inspectorate asked us to stop the food distribution in Blaha Lujza Square because of landscaping and to continue it in 2 days in another area they had designated, in Teleki Square. We were reluctant to relocate the distribution point, firstly because a location with less good infrastructure is more difficult to reach for the target groups, e.g. pensioners, families with several children and poor families, and secondly because we were concerned about public safety at the new location, both for the safety of the beneficiaries and for our own volunteers. The mayor of the 8th district did not support our move to the new location at the time either, as Teleki Square was about to be renovated.
The food distribution has been temporarily moved to a marginal point of the square, to Emilia Márkus Street, where it is less visible and less disturbing for the people walking on the square.
Lengthy negotiations began after it became clear that it was not just a question of landscaping. Even after 6 months of negotiations, no final agreement has been reached between FKF, the municipalities and our organisation on the future of the food distribution site. In the midst of the uncertainties, a temporary solution has been outlined, a temporary site, and we can continue to work on this for another year and a half, with regard to the permits.
As of 16 May, the 20-year old food distribution on Blaha Lujza Square will be closed by our Foundation. At 14:30, the last on-site food distribution will be closed with a short press conference and a commemoration. We welcome all those who wish to participate in this milestone event in the life of our organisation. We also welcome helpers to distribute leaflets and set up tents (30/243-1486).
On Tuesday 17th, the distribution point will still open on Teleki László Square, between the ÖMV fountain and Remiz, also at 14:30. Here, Dr. Máté Kocsis, Mayor of Józsefváros will give a short welcome speech, and we are also waiting for the feedback of Mayor István Tarlós regarding the participation.