The garbage café reopens – a new beginning in Kaløgade

Photo: Frederikke Sørensen

There was a very special atmosphere in the air on Friday, February 14, when the Skraldecaféen was able to open its doors again – this time in the new premises at Kaløgade 7, Aarhus C. After a period of uncertainty and temporary closure on Jægergårdsgade, the joy was evident among both volunteers and the many citizens who have missed the Skraldecaféen's food distribution.

“We have really been looking forward to this day,” says general manager Annbritt Jørgensen. “The junk café is more than just a place to get food – it is a community where we help each other. Being able to open again means everything to us.”

A new chapter, but the same important mission

For years, the Skraldecaféen has been a cornerstone of Aarhus' work against food waste. Every day, tons of good food is thrown away in supermarkets, even though it is still edible. It is precisely this food that the Skraldecaféen collects, sorts and distributes – to the benefit of both the environment and the many Aarhusians who come by to pick up a basket of goods.

But when the previous premises on Jægergårdsgade had to close, an uncertain period ensued. The junk café was left without a permanent base, and food distribution had to be put on hold. Therefore, it was a great relief when the premises on Kaløgade became a reality.

“We see it as a new beginning,” says one of the volunteers. “Kaløgade will become a gathering point where we can continue the fight against food waste and create a space where everyone feels welcome.”

Food distribution for all – a simple and sustainable concept

The concept of the Skraldecaféen is simple: Surplus food from many of the city's grocery stores and surrounding areas is collected every day by volunteers. The food is sorted and prepared for distribution, so nothing goes to waste.

For 25 kroner you can get a basket and fill it with the items you need. It can be a help to the student who just needs a little extra, a family with children who didn't make it past the supermarket, or a pensioner who would like more flexibility in their budget.

“It’s not just a financial help – it’s also a way to take responsibility for food waste,” says one of the café’s regulars. “I’m amazed at how much good food would otherwise end up in the trash.”

A tour inside the new premises

When you enter Skraldecaféen's new premises on Kaløgade, it's clear that things have been thought through. The premises are clearly laid out so that everyone can easily find the goods they need.

The green plastic boxes on the shelves are filled with fresh vegetables, fruit and bread. There is a refrigerated section where dairy products, fresh meat and ready meals are safely stored. The signage helps visitors navigate, and volunteers are always ready to guide.

The bread selection is impressive – rye bread, sandwich bread, buns and pastries fill the shelves. The fruit and vegetable section is full of fresh produce – perhaps with a blemish or two, but still fully edible.

“It’s amazing to see how the food here gets a second chance,” says one volunteer. “And the best part is that it goes to someone who can use it.”

Volunteers are the heart of the Trash Cafe

The junk café wouldn't exist without its volunteers. Every day they show up to pick up food, sort goods and organize the distribution. On opening day, it was clear how much effort they have put into getting the place back up and running.

“You become part of something bigger,” says one of the volunteers. “It’s meaningful to help reduce food waste, but also to see how much it means to the people who come here.”

There is always a need for extra hands, so the Trash Cafe encourages new volunteers to sign up.

“You don't need experience – just the desire to make a difference.”

Opening day – a day filled with smiles and unity

The opening day was celebrated with coffee, homemade cakes and speeches, where, among others, city council member Katrine Vinther Nielsen participated and officially declared the café reopened. She emphasized how important a role the Skraldecaféen plays in Aarhus – both as a place that saves food from being thrown away, but also as a community that brings people together.

Among those present were both past guests, new faces and volunteers who had helped make the day possible. The atmosphere was one of joy and relief – the Trash Café was back.

What now? The future of the Trash Café

With the new framework in Kaløgade, Skraldecaféen is ready to embark on a new phase. Food distribution will take place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and work is ongoing to optimize and develop the project.

Everyone is welcome – whether you want to reduce food waste, save money or just have a little extra for dinner.

Address: Kaløgade 7, Bagporten, Aarhus C

Food distribution: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 16.00:17.00 PM – XNUMX:XNUMX PM

Would you like to become part of the community? The garbage café is constantly looking for volunteers who will help with everything from food collection to sorting and distribution.