Social services are among the core activities of the Croatian Red Cross, which contribute to alleviating the effects of poverty, social exclusion and other adverse life circumstances and promote dignity, solidarity and equal opportunities for all members of the community.
Through the network of Croatian Red Cross local branches across the Republic of Croatia, we provide help and support to individuals and families facing various social risks on a daily basis. Our activities include humanitarian aid, development and provision of social services, and the implementation of programs that respond to community needs and contribute to a better quality of life for beneficiaries.
By developing existing and creating new programs, we strive to respond to the changing needs of society and provide accessible, timely and quality aid to all who need it.
Humanitarian aid
The humanitarian programs of the Croatian Red Cross are aimed at providing basic life necessities to people and families in difficult life circumstances. Aid is provided through the collection and distribution of material and financial resources, organisation of humanitarian actions and cooperation with citizens, donors and the business sector.
The most significant humanitarian aid programs include:
social supermarkets
soup kitchens
food distribution
distribution of clothing and footwear
distribution of hygiene supplies
humanitarian aid collection campaigns
Solidarity in Action campaign
other forms of material aid.
Food banks
To encourage food donation and reduce food waste, a system of food banks has been established in the Republic of Croatia. Food banks act as distribution centres where donated food is collected, stored and distributed to people in need, in cooperation with producers, distributors, retailers and other food donors.
The Croatian Red Cross local branches play a key role in the implementation of the food bank system and currently manage eight of the nine food banks in the Republic of Croatia. In addition to collecting and distributing food, they participate in connecting donors and mediators, promoting food donation and implementing activities that increase the availability of food to citizens that need it the most.
At the same time, food banks help people at risk of poverty and social exclusion and contribute to a more responsible use of food resources and a reduction in food waste.
Social programs and services
In addition to humanitarian aid, the Croatian Red Cross develops and implements social programs that provide support to people in adverse life circumstances, encouraging their independence, social inclusion and active participation in community life.
The programs are intended for different groups of beneficiaries, including in particular:
elderly people
people with disabilities
homeless people
children and families at risk of poverty
others who need help and support.
Depending on local community needs, the Croatian Red Cross local branches carry out various social services and programs, including:
home assistance
Make a Wish program
Club 65+
half-day care for the elderly
homeless shelters
psychosocial support
counselling and other forms of support.
