What's Happening?
Label Gamelle, a social enterprise founded in Paris in 2020 by Christine Merckelbagh, employs homeless people and refugees to turn surplus food into meals. The initiative aims to combat food waste and provide employment opportunities, achieving significant
housing and employment outcomes for its workers. Merckelbagh, who transitioned from a corporate career to social entrepreneurship, emphasizes the cooperative model where the business is owned by its workers. Label Gamelle has grown to produce over 2,500 meals daily, supporting shelters and welfare services.
Why It's Important?
Label Gamelle represents a successful model of social entrepreneurship that addresses multiple societal issues, including food waste and unemployment among vulnerable populations. By providing jobs and training, the initiative helps integrate refugees and homeless individuals into society, offering them dignity and stability. This approach could inspire similar models in other regions, highlighting the potential of social enterprises to drive positive change and address systemic challenges.
