Group Agreement – Foodsharing Points (FPs)

General – Communication – Foodsaving – Foodsharing Points (FPs) – Onboarding

This document is a translation of the original group agreement in German [PDF]. In case of ambiguities or mistranslations, the original document in German is the valid reference for the group functioning.

1. Objectives and meaning

Foodsharing Points are a public place for the exchange of food.

The legal basis for Foodsharing Points is described in the document “Legal Foundation”  (see link below).

2. Structure

Each Foodsharing Point has a circle of members from whom a representative is appointed. The Foodsharing Point managers of all the Foodsharing Points meet in their own circle.

2.1. Foodsharing Point Circle

Responsibilities

  • Establishment and maintenance of the Foodsharing Point.
  • Election of a Foodsharing Point representative for the circle of Foodsharing Point representatives.
  • Election of a Foodsharing Point Hygiene supervisor for the circle of Foodsharing Point Hygiene supervisors.

How do I become a member of this circle?

Any member of the association may join. The new member shall inform all the other members of this circle of their membership.

2.2. Foodsharing Point Representative

Responsibilities

  • Communication with the site provider.
  • Maintenance of the cleaning plan.
  • Ensuring compliance with hygiene rules.
  • Representation of the interests of their Foodsharing Point in the circle of Foodsharing Point representatives.

How do I become a Foodsharing Point representative?

Sociocratic election at circle meetings.

How do I relinquish my position as a Foodsharing Point representative?

  1. Announce resignation to all members of your own circle and the circle in which you have represented your circle.
  2. Invite those interested in the role to the next circle meeting.
  3. Sociocratic election at the next circle meeting.
  4. Handing over the role to the new person.
  5. Communicate the change to all members of your own circle and the circle in which you have represented your circle.
  6. Be available for four weeks for inquiries and handover.

2.3. Circle of Foodsharing Point Representatives 

Responsibilities

  • Optimization of Foodsharing Points.
  • Management and procurement of the necessary material.
  • Election of a representative for the Council.
  • Choice of a contact person for all Foodsharing Points for the health authority.

How do I become a member of this circle?

By choosing a Foodsharing Point representative.

3. Requirements for a Foodsharing Point

  • Fridge, shelf or cupboard.
  • Optimal location:
    • Accessibility: Place accessible to all people.
    • Prevention of vandalism: A place where many people always pass by. It  is best to be closed at night.
    • If a refrigerator: need for power supply.
    • Outdoors: protection from animals and weather influences.
  • If a refrigerator: Clarification who will cover the electricity costs.
  • Clarification of who takes care of the cleaning and maintenance: At least 5 people, including at least 3 members and optional external people. As soon as there are fewer than 5, the Foodsharing Point must be closed. A cleaning plan is created, who takes care of what and when.
  • Inclusion in insurance.
  • Foodsharing Point documents to be printed out and attached to the Foodsharing Point in a clear and visible manner:

4. Supervision of a Foodsharing Point

  1. Ideally every day:
    1. Control temperature.
    2. Control food.
    3. Note the measures taken in the hygiene plan.
  2. Clean up and clean at least every 2 to 3 days
    1. Bring and use cleaning utensils. 
    2. Note the measures taken in the hygiene plan.
    3. If possible, take and upload a photo of the refrigerator and the cleaning plan.
    4. Clothes to be washed at 60°C at least.