The distribution of surplus school meals in Turku is expanding to Katedralskolan. Red Cross volunteers take care of the distribution, and The Red Cross is now looking for new volunteers.

School meals prepared by Kaarea are distributed in Turku as surplus food with the help of Red Cross volunteers. The surplus food distribution at schools in Turku, launched in March 2024, has been well received: Red Cross surplus food distribution sites in Turku recorded more than 15,000 visits in 2025.

Previously, surplus food prepared by Kaarea has been distributed in Turku from Aurajoki School, Topelius School, Wäinö Aaltonen School, Turku Normaali School, the Ruiskatu campus and Turun klassillinen lukio. The service is now expanding to Katedralskolan.

The food distribution reduces waste and ensures that good food is put to use even after school lunches. In Turku, the distribution is organized jointly by Kaarea, the City of Turku, the Finnish Red Cross and its volunteers.

The Red Cross is looking for volunteers for food distribution at Katedralskolan

The Red Cross is looking for new volunteers to distribute surplus food at Katedralskolan. New volunteers are also needed for other schools Food distribution is a straightforward and accessible volunteer opportunity. Each shift lasts about an hour, and volunteers can choose shifts that fit their schedules.

“According to volunteers, food distribution is a rewarding task that also gives a lot back to those taking part Volunteers have many positive interactions with people picking up food and with fellow volunteers. These encounters create a genuine sense of community in everyday life,” says Miika Norro, a specialist in social well-being with the Southwest Finland District of the Finnish Red Cross.

A hygiene passport is not required for the task, and Volunteers will be given an orientation before starting. Those interested in volunteering are asked to sign up by contacting Miika Norro (040 489 5754 or miika.norro@redcross.fi).

Surplus food distribution for the fall season in Turku begins on Monday, August 24, at Aurajoki School, Topelius School, Wäinö Aaltonen School, Turku Normaali School, the Ruiskatu campus and Turku Classical Upper Secondary School. At Katedralskolan, surplus food distribution will begin one week later, on Monday, August 31.

Detailed schedules and distribution information are available at ruoka-apu.fi.

Photo: Miika Norro / Finnish Red Cross