DONEGAL Local Development Company (DLDC) has officially launched the Food Equality Initiative (FEI).

This transformative countywide programme is supported by €200,000 in PEACEPLUS funding. It aims to tackle hunger and empower local communities through cross-community and cross-border collaboration.

The launch event, held Monday October 13 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.

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.”