Date: 15 Oct 2025
A new €200,000 ‘Food Equality Initiative’ under the PEACEPLUS Programme has launched across Donegal, aiming to tackle hunger and empower local communities through cross-community and cross-border collaboration
Donegal Local Development Company (DLDC) has officially launched the Food Equality Initiative (FEI), a transformative countywide programme supported by €200,000 in PEACEPLUS funding.
The launch event, held Monday 13th October 2025 at DLDC’s Head Office in Letterkenny, brought together community organisations and local stakeholders, to mark a significant step forward in tackling food inequality and promoting sustainable living across Donegal.
The Food Equality Initiative is a key component of Donegal County Council’s €7.6 million PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). Running from November 2025 to September 2027, the initiative is one of 32 community-led projects . This programme falls under Theme 3: Building Respect for All Cultural Identities, aimed at fostering inclusion, empowerment, and cross-community collaboration.
The Food Equality Initiative, delivered by Donegal Local Development Company (DLDC), includes a key strand that will provide 25 Balance Healthy Affordable Cooking for All, 6-week cookery courses to over 200 participants.
At its core, The Food Equality Initiative addresses the growing issue of food poverty,the lack of access to sufficient, nutritious food,and its impact on health, culture, and community life. The programme will engage underrepresented and socially disadvantaged groups through a multi-agency approach, involving public bodies, community organisations, retailers, and Donegal’s 21 food banks.
The programme also supports seven UN Sustainable Development Goals, including No Poverty, Zero Hunger, and Climate Action.
The initiative aims to enhance access to nutritious food while fostering meaningful social connections and reducing hunger. It seeks to strengthen cross-sector partnerships and promote inclusive community engagement with a strong focus on equality. Key activities include hosting showcase events, delivering tailored training, and facilitating intergenerational cooking sessions that encourage the sharing of culinary skills and personal stories.
A cross-border dimension will see the Donegal Food Response Network (DFRN) collaborate with Acorn Farm in Derry, fostering two-way learning and regional cooperation between Donegal, Derry, and Tyrone.
Speaking at the launch, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council and Chair of Donegal’s PEACEPLUS Partnership, Paul Canning, said:
“This initiative reflects the values at the heart of the PEACEPLUS Programme, respect, inclusion, and community empowerment. By addressing food poverty and promoting sustainable practices, we are not only supporting those most in need but also building stronger, more connected communities across Donegal and beyond.
Speaking at the launch, Paul Hannigan, DLDC Chairperson said “The Food Equality Initiative is more than a project- it’s a movement that encourages inclusion, respect, and shared responsibility. Through the cooking courses, the partnerships, and community engagement, we’re fostering a culture where everyone has a role to play in building food equality and sustainability.”
Padraic Fingleton, DLDC CEO said: “DLDC is honoured to launch the Food Equality Initiative, a programme that truly reflects our commitment to supporting healthier, more sustainable communities. Through 25 ‘Healthy, Balanced, Affordable Cooking for All’ six-week courses delivered across the county, we aim to empower individuals and families with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to prepare nourishing meals on a budget.”
This community-driven PEACEPLUS initiative unites people to combat hunger and foster lasting connections , building a hopeful, inclusive future where everyone can thrive.
The Food Equality Initiative Programme supported by PEACEPLUS; a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
