In September 2026, Stichting De Groentedeler received a wonderful contribution from Stichting Belita Fonds. We spoke with chairman Ben Tax about this contribution. Our conversation touched on compassion, healthy food, dignity and the power of people helping one another.
Healthy food does more than satisfy hunger
“Good nutrition can make a huge contribution to the quality of life of people who are struggling financially or personally,” says Ben. “How wonderful is it that when you are unable to put food on the table, there are organisations that can help you in a meaningful way?”
The financial problems faced by people who turn to the Food Bank can cause stress, contribute to low self-esteem and even lead to psychological problems. “Good food provides an important foundation for staying on your feet,” says Ben. “Well-intentioned initiatives that donate the cheapest products from the supermarket are certainly valuable, but they do little to improve people’s health. Organic food does, and provides these people with the additional nutritional value they need so badly. It gives them more energy and is often tastier too. That is why we support Stichting De Groentedeler: to make sure these people have access to the best vegetables.”
A place for everyone
According to Stichting Belita Fonds, one of the Food Bank’s strengths is the fact that everyone is welcome. “No distinction is made based on political views, religion or background. In a society where polarisation is such a widely discussed issue, that is something very positive. Ultimately, we are all human beings who need healthy food,” says Ben.
Yet asking for or accepting help can often be difficult. “People may feel ashamed, or worry about running into someone they know. They may also feel that they should be able to manage on their own. As a result, they sometimes hesitate to ask for help,” says Ben. “We look at this differently. Receiving help does not mean that you are worth less. Your value is not determined by your income or by whether you can manage everything on your own. In fact, by accepting help, you also give someone else the opportunity to help. Everyone has something they are struggling with. And we live in an economy where life is expensive, so take the opportunity to receive help. You are worth it.”
Feeding the hungry
Stichting Belita Fonds was established by a group of philanthropists who wanted to use their resources for social causes, guided by the seven works of mercy. This idea originates from the Bible, Matthew 25:40, in which Jesus says: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
The seven works of mercy are:
- Feed the hungry
- Give drink to the thirsty
- Clothe the naked
- Shelter the stranger
- Care for the sick
- Visit the imprisoned
- Bury the dead
“The first six come directly from the Bible. The last one was added later. Caring for others is at the heart of these works for us, without making distinctions based on someone’s background, religion or beliefs,” Ben explains.
“Stichting Belita Fonds has only been around for a year, but organisations are already finding their way to us. We assess applications based on how well they fit with our mission and vision. We also look at how professionally an organisation operates and develops. The board then decides together whether an application will be approved. Unfortunately, we also have to disappoint organisations from time to time, but that was not the case with Stichting De Groentedeler.”
Working together makes a difference
“In addition to financial support, we like to explore how we can help an initiative move forward in other ways. For example, I introduced Stichting De Groentedeler to Rijk Zwaan. Perhaps they can provide seeds for the coming growing season and make their own contribution for a broader access to healthy food. I hope other funds, foundations and organisations will think in the same way. That they take a moment to consider how they can help an initiative grow in different ways,” says Ben.
Stichting Belita Fonds is pleased to see the developments surrounding the possible establishment of Stichting De Groentedeler in Zoetermeer. “The fact that the possibilities are already being explored shows that the foundation is doing well, both in terms of its work and financially. We hope this initiative can continue and who knows what other opportunities and concepts may emerge in the future to help people. Whatever lies ahead, above all, keep doing the work for the people.”