Spëndchen asbl

We are the central purchasing organisation for the social grocery stores (“Croix-Rouge Buttek” and “Hëllef um Terrain Buttek”) in Luxembourg.

Presentation of our organisation

The “Croix-Rouge Buttek” and “Hëllef um Terrain Buttek” social grocery stores aim to:
• Combat poverty and support people facing difficult circumstances.
• Strengthen solidarity and social cohesion.
• Promote a balanced and healthy diet.
• Reduce food waste.

A joint initiative to combat poverty
As part of their shared commitment to fighting poverty, and in response to the continuously increasing risk of poverty in Luxembourg, the Luxembourg Red Cross and Hëllef um Terrain have jointly developed a concept for social grocery stores (“épiceries sociales”), which is currently being implemented at various locations across the country. This initiative benefits from the support of the Ministry of Family Affairs, Solidarity, Living Together and Reception (Ministère de la Famille, des Solidarités, du Vivre ensemble et de l’Accueil). It builds on Luxembourg’s existing social support system, complementing and strengthening the current range of food and material assistance available in the country.

Why this initiative?
Although Luxembourg is widely recognised as a wealthy country, some of its residents are affected by poverty. In 2008, more than 65,000 people were living below the at-risk-of-poverty threshold. In the current economic climate, the number of households experiencing financial hardship is tending to increase.

What services are provided?
- Several retail outlets across the country, ensuring convenient and local access for people in need.
- Opening five days a week.
- A wide range of food and household products, including basic foodstuffs, fresh produce, hygiene products and cleaning supplies.
- A financial contribution from beneficiaries, based on the principles of dignity, respect and personal responsibility.

Who is eligible to shop at the “Buttek” stores?
Only individuals whose financial and social needs have been objectively assessed by the local Social Welfare Offices (Offices sociaux) or recognised social services are eligible to shop at the Hëllef um Terrain and Luxembourg Red Cross social grocery stores. Access is granted through a personal membership card.
The “Croix-Rouge Buttek” and “Hëllef um Terrain Buttek” provide people affected by poverty with food and everyday essential products in exchange for a financial contribution of approximately one-third of the regular market price. Through this solidarity-based initiative, people in need benefit from increased purchasing power while gaining access to fresh, high-quality products.