Christmas of hope: 105 boxes packed for those in need in Osterhofen!

Christmas of hope: 105 boxes packed for those in need in Osterhofen!

It is December 24th, 2025 and the anticipation of Christmas is palpable. With this in mind, Tafel Osterhofen in the Deggendorf district opened its doors this morning to offer those in need in the region a special Christmas edition. As early as 7 a.m., the hard-working helpers began packing 105 large banana boxes, filled to the brim with food and treats. These boxes contain everything from pizza, chicken legs, ice cream and coffee to canned milk, flour, butter, sugar, rice, chocolate, tangerines and not forgetting cookies - a little feast for those who collect them!

The Tafel manager, Christl Vierthaler, comments on the uncertain number of people collecting items: “We don’t know how many people are coming,” but she is optimistic that more boxes can be put together quickly if necessary. A total of 118 notes were issued to those in need, providing care for an estimated 300 to 350 people - depending on the children in the families. Around 110 people come regularly to receive fresh vegetables and food donations. And that's just part of the work the board does.

The role of food banks in Germany

The food bank movement in Germany is diverse and the approximately 970 food banks throughout the country differ not only in their size, but also in the frequency of their expenditure. Large food banks with several distribution points open several times a week, smaller ones once a week or even less often. Each board has its own rules for proof of new customers and distribution times. Anyone looking for support should contact the local food bank directly to get the best information. This collaboration is particularly important because the food banks finance their work through donations from private individuals and companies who value donated food, drugstore items or monetary donations. Tafel.de provides an overview of the regional food banks and their support options.

Current challenges

The demand for food from food banks is particularly high at Christmas time, not least because of the increased prices for Christmas food. Inflation and high rental costs are also affecting many families. In 2025, 1.5 million people took advantage of food donations, including an increasing number of children. Tagesschau reports: This has led to many food banks now having waiting lists or even stopping admissions. Despite the support of 77,000 volunteers in 2025, showing an increase of 5,000 compared to the previous year, financial support remains inadequate.

Tafel Osterhofen can rely on a good supply source from surrounding supermarkets and private individuals, but here too the quality of the donated food has fallen. However, shops still invite you to enjoy dishes that provide hospitality and support together.

In times like these, the help of food banks is not only important, it is simply necessary. Society should therefore also think about the social policy measures that are necessary to sustainably combat poverty and the high cost of living. It is up to all of us to raise awareness and provide support – whether through food donations, financial support or volunteering. Christmas is a time of giving and sharing, and every little gesture counts.