The family behind
hope
A dream born in Lundo, Trentino, that has become a canteen that feeds hundreds of people every week in Itaosy, Madagascar.
Everything was born at the table
Everything comes from a family in Lundo (TN) — Modestine, Paolo and Lorenza. Since 2009, through regular journeys to Madagascar, they have seen the poverty of that country up close. Modestine and Lorenza were born in Madagascar and care deeply about their people who suffer from hunger.
In 2019, during a lunch organised for the poor, 120 people showed up instead of the 40 expected. The food was meant for 40 people, so a decision had to be made. Modestine said to let everyone in anyway and, at the moment the meals were handed out, the food multiplied and was enough for everyone, with some even left over. That "miracle", accompanied by the scent of roses and the shared prayer, gave shape to a dream already under way: the official founding of the association in 2018.
The canteen was inaugurated on 20 December 2020. Since then it has opened three days a week without ever stopping.
“Words are not needed, but a gesture of solidarity.”
Seventeen people who make the difference
Modestine Ranivoarimanana, president of the association, grew up in Madagascar and lives in Italy. She leads the association while holding together Malagasy roots and the Italian support network.
At her side: 13 volunteers and 4 local employees — cooks and logistics — who make the canteen possible every week.
Officially recognized organization
Statute, recognition and support documents for the project in Madagascar. Each document is verifiable.
Carmelite Fathers document
Attestation of support for the canteen project in Itaosy.
Open the document
Learn about our history
Smiles at the canteen
