Activities

Sustainable social inclusive restaurantsfood assistance programsadvocacy

Refettorio Sustainable Social Inclusive Restaurant

What is Refettorio?

Refettorio Geneva is more than a restaurant—it's a community-driven space that merges the art of gastronomy with humanitarian aid, embodying Geneva’s rich legacy of innovation, creativity, and social equity. Here, we create a unique and dignified dining experience for those most vulnerable in our society, including individuals facing homelessness, isolation, and food insecurity.

Supported by collaborations across community organizations, private donors, public initiatives, and civil society, Refettorio Geneva serves essential meals with a spirit of radical hospitality. Every dish is prepared with care and respect, providing more than just sustenance—it offers comfort, connection, and a reminder of the dignity every individual deserves.

Guided by a zero-waste philosophy, we’re committed to minimizing our environmental footprint. By transforming surplus food that would otherwise go to waste, we protect the environment, conserve resources, and embrace a call to action against food waste. Through this approach, Refettorio Geneva nourishes both body and soul, affirming our belief in the power of food to inspire compassion, restore hope, and build a more inclusive community. Join us in this mission to serve, uplift, and make a tangible difference for those who need it most.

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Where is it ?

120 rue de Lyon

1203 Genève

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Food Assistance Programs

Rapid Relief Kitchen

Originally developed to address the urgent food needs aboard the Ocean Viking rescue ship by SOS Méditerranée, the Rapid Relief Kitchen has quickly evolved into a vital tool for humanitarian response. With a versatile design that regenerates food parcels on-site, the RRK has garnered strong interest from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other global partners, positioning it for deployment in challenging settings, including UNHCR refugee camps and high-demand crisis zones.

The RRK is a portable, containerized kitchen module ready to provide fast, high-quality nourishment to those in critical need. Unlike traditional field kitchens, the RRK focuses on regenerating pre-packaged food supplies, allowing us to scale up food distribution in regions where resources are limited, and cooking facilities are scarce. Built through the collaborative effort of dedicated donors and humanitarian organizations, the RRK stands ready to revolutionize emergency food support for displaced individuals and communities.At the heart of the RRK's mission is a commitment to swiftly deliver balanced, dignifying meals to individuals who have faced unimaginable hardship. By merging cutting-edge technology with culinary expertise, we bring the power of food to those who need it most, delivering not just sustenance but a sense of comfort and hope.

But we can't do it alone. Your support is crucial to expanding this initiative and bringing vital food support to more individuals and families in crisis. Join us on this journey to make a real difference in the lives of refugees and displaced persons, fostering compassion and resilience across the globe.

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The Ark

Our overarching mission is to preserve Schindler's Ark and transform it into a Museum of Survivors, nestled in theheart of Europe. Schindler's Ark, a poignant symbol of resilience, served as a sanctuary for 1200 Jews on Schindler's List, immortalized in Steven Spielberg's film. Unfortunately, this historical site was tragically stolen by the Nazis from the Low-Beer family in 1938.

In 2019, the Low-Beer family, in collaboration with the local community, undertook the monumental task of restoring the dilapidated textile factory, giving rise to the Arks Foundation. Our collective vision is to create the Museum of Survivors, a testament to human endurance and the indomitable spirit of those who found refuge within its walls.

What makes this endeavor truly special is our collaboration with school students from five countries, co-designing the museum that is set to open its doors in 2025—with your invaluable support. The architectural brilliance behind the museum is crafted by young architects hailing from 110 countries, a testament to the global resonance of our cause. This collaboration is made possible through the prestigious Inspireli award, established by Vaclav Havel.

Together, let's weave the tapestry of history, resilience, and education. Join us in preserving the legacy of Schindler's Arkand bringing to life the Museum of Survivors—a beacon of remembrance and inspiration for generations to come.

full informations here

Advocacy

Geneva Right to Food Manifesto

In the canton of Geneva, a myriad of dedicated actors have been actively addressing critical issues surrounding food security and sovereignty, championing the fundamental right to food. Despite its acknowledgment in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (1966), ratified by Switzerland, the right to food had yet to find its place in the canton's constitution. 

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic exposed thousands in the canton of Geneva to the harsh realities of food insecurity. Responding to this pressing need, the Grand Council (cantonal parliament) adopted a parliamentary initiative during this challenging period to enshrine the right to food in the constitution. In June 2023, the people of Geneva had the opportunity to vote on this significant inclusion. 

While there is currently no specific initiative on food sovereignty, a pivotal moment in 2018 revealed the canton's stance. Despite the Swiss population voting against including food sovereignty in the federal constitution, Geneva's residents overwhelmingly voted in favor, indicating a favorable environment for such inclusion at the cantonal level. 

In this context, a forum was convened to bring together stakeholders who have tirelessly worked on these crucial matters in the canton. The goal was to facilitate a constructive dialogue on the historical political implications of incorporating the right to food and food sovereignty into the constitution of Geneva. Through democratic collaboration, our objective was to formulate a political proposal and initiate a campaign rallying support for the inclusion of the right to food and food sovereignty in the canton's constitution.