Not just Bread Alone: The Evolution of Food Assistance Services in Caritas of Emilia Romagna Post COVID-19 Pandemic

This article investigates Caritas-managed food assistance services in Emilia-Romagna, with a particular focus on the Diocese of Reggio Emilia. It aims to understand how the pandemic led to adaptations and innovations in food distribution and how these changes were influenced by and affected the social capital of the communities involved. The study employs a multi-method approach, including participant observation, a focus group, and a survey. The analysis is guided by the social capital framework providing a lens through which to examine relational dynamics, community resilience, and alterations in food assistance strategies. The findings reveal a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities, demonstrating how COVID-19 prompted Caritas to adopt a perspective that transcends performance-based aid. The study contributes to the literature on food assistance services and social capital, offering insights into how social capital can facilitate adaptation and resilience. It also discusses implications for future food assistance strategies, emphasizing the relational and community dimensions.