AIRC chocolates: on 7 November, kindness has a sweet heart!

Some gifts are chosen with the recipient in mind. A box to open after lunch, something to bring to a friend, a little thought left on the table with a note. On 7 November, that gesture can also become a way to support cancer research.

Fondazione AIRC’s Research Chocolates are returning. On Saturday 7 November 2026, volunteers will be in over 2,000 squares: the campaign chocolates will be distributed in return for a €15 donation. A concrete date to save now, before Saturday fills up with everything else.

Behind the word “research” are people

If a diagnosis has touched your life or someone you love, you know that certain words can change the weight of a day. A test, a wait, a phone call. Thinking about anything else can become difficult, even while life outside continues at its usual pace.

You may be receiving treatment, accompanying someone close or carrying a painful memory. That is why we want to speak about solidarity gently. Supporting research offers a way to participate; the hope of people facing illness deserves respect, without easy promises or demands that they always appear strong.

When, where, how: keep it simple

The date in the squares is 7 November. To find your nearest location, consult the map on AIRC’s official page: search for your town or use geolocation. The stated donation to receive the Research Chocolates is €15.

The campaign also lists Banco BPM branches for November and a link to the Amazon store. Current distribution and availability information is provided through the official channels. Checking before going out helps you choose the right location and organise your day more calmly.

Find your nearest distribution point

Camilla, Lorenzo, Mariarosa: faces behind the campaign

The 2026 Research Days are announced for 28 October to 15 November. The initiative introduces the public to scientific work and raises support to keep it going. AIRC presents three people representing its community: Camilla, a research testimonial; Lorenzo, a researcher; and Mariarosa, a research testimonial, donor and volunteer.

Putting names alongside a campaign helps us pause. It reminds us that collective commitment contains expertise, time and personal choices. And that our own way of participating can meet those of people very different from us.

Time given by the people who will be there

When you stop at a stall, you may meet someone who has chosen to dedicate part of their day to the initiative. Perhaps you are in a hurry. Perhaps there is only time for a greeting. You can still pause to ask for information or say thank you.

We do not know every volunteer’s motivations. We can, however, listen to the stories AIRC has chosen to make public. Its video archive includes Chiara’s story as a volunteer: a voice to encounter as we get closer to the people who give their time to the Foundation.

At the end of the article, you can watch Chiara’s story as a volunteer, from AIRC’s official archive.

A small invitation, thoughtfully made

If you want to take part, you can make the decision easier: choose a square and invite someone along. “Shall we stop there on Saturday?” Include the official link so the date and details remain close at hand. A walk, a stop, a shared gesture.

You can also choose to go alone. Not every choice needs a photograph or a public explanation. If that gesture carries the memory of someone you miss or a gratitude you cannot explain, you can keep it that way.

If you want to be close to someone, ask what they need

A solidarity campaign may bring to mind someone facing difficult days. If you want to contact them, leave room for their answer. Offer something specific: accompanying them on an errand, preparing a meal or spending time together when they feel able.

Before giving food, ask whether it would be welcome and suitable for their needs. And if you share your participation on social media, speak about your own choice: another person’s health and story belong to them.

7 November: make room for kindness

Our calendars hold appointments booked well in advance and small intentions that remain suspended. If you want to support this initiative, you can make room for it: save the page, search for your town and choose how to participate.

A box of chocolates can accompany a visit or become a thought to share. Through AIRC’s campaign, the donation supports research. Two parts of the same occasion, each carrying its own value.

On Saturday 7 November, the gesture begins in a square. And, if you like, with a simple message to someone close: “Shall we go together?”

Would you like to discover other people and initiatives that make room for care? Continue with BIANCA BALTI: THE LOVELIEST PINK IS FINDING STRENGTH TOGETHER and A little extra shopping for someone who needs it.