FEBA’s Senior Policy Officer recently participated in the impactful event, “Uniting Efforts: From Material Support to Skills Development for a Strong Social Europe,” held on November 12–13, 2025, in Helsinki. This event was organized by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) Communities of Practice (CoPs) focused on critical areas: Material Support, Employment, Education and Skills, and Migrant Integration.
The core takeaway from the panel session, which included FEBA’s contribution, was the genuine connection and collaborative spirit among participants. The discussion naturally flowed, bringing together diverse expertise and passion, and was further enriched by valuable input from the audience. FEBA’s participation specifically emphasized the crucial role of Material Support, particularly food, within the broader context of social inclusion. When immediate needs are met, vulnerable populations can aim at programs focused on skills development and employment.
The Context: Social Innovation+ Initiative
The event was held under the umbrella of the Social Innovation+ Initiative, a key component of the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+). This initiative is dedicated to tackling societal challenges in areas like employment, education, skills, and social inclusion. The initiative provides a critical platform for organizations like FEBA to share insights and shape future support strategies. FEBA thanks the Social Innovation+ Initiative for hosting this vital space for knowledge-sharing and collaboration.
