As bodegas solidárias na promoção do direito humano à alimentação adequada e no enfrentamento à fome no Rio Grande do Norte

Abstract

The study investigated the role of Bodegas Solidárias, an initiative of the Rural and Urban Assistance Service (SAR), in promoting food and nutritional security in ten municipalities in Rio Grande do Norte, between 2020 and 2024. The objectives included analyzing the process of setting up and running the Bodegas, tracing the sociodemographic profile of the families served and evaluating their contributions to food and nutrition security. The methodology used a qualitative approach, involving interviews with local leaders, questionnaires and document analysis. In addition, a matrix of contributions was used to assess the dimensions of food and nutritional security, considering availability, access, consumption and nutrition and health. The results indicate that Bodegas Solidárias transcend the logic of assistance, adopting a participatory structure that not only provides quality food, but also promotes training processes for families. This approach strengthens autonomy, social engagement and the ability to influence public policies, promoting food sovereignty and sustainable alternatives in the territories served. An analysis of the socio-demographic profile revealed that most of the beneficiary families live in a situation of social vulnerability, with a predominance of female heads of household, low levels of schooling and subsistence activities. This data reinforces the relevance of Bodegas for populations at risk of food insecurity, by serving historically marginalized groups. Bodegas Solidárias are in line with the guidelines of the National Food and Nutrition Security Policy, contributing to the reduction of hunger by integrating social, political and environmental dimensions. As well as increasing access to healthy food, the initiative encourages critical reflection on the structural causes of hunger and poverty, reinforcing practices of solidarity and community participation. The research showed that Bodegas Solidárias have a positive impact on the quality of life of the families they serve, strengthening the social fabric and promoting practices of solidarity and community organization. Their innovative and integrated approach constitutes a social technology model that can be replicated in other contexts, contributing to tackling structural inequalities and advancing the construction of more resilient, fair and sustainable food systems, reaffirming the importance of inclusive strategies to guarantee the human right to adequate food.