Every year during the Holy Week and the period of Lent, it is common to see city halls and state governments organizing the free distribution of fish to families in situations of social vulnerability in various regions of Brazil. The initiative, in addition to respecting Christian tradition, plays a fundamental role in the food security of the neediest population.
But after all, who is entitled to receive the fish? How do I register? Is there a national program?
In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about the distribution of fish during Lent and learn how to register on CadĆnico to have access to this and other social benefits.
Why is fish distributed during Lent?
A Lent is a religious period that precedes Easter, marked by practices of fasting, prayer and reflection. Within the Christian tradition, it is common for people to avoid the consumption of red meat, especially in Good Friday. Therefore, fish becomes the main food at this time.
As a result, the price of fish tends to rise on the market, making it difficult for low-income families to access it. To ensure that these families can also maintain their tradition, city governments across the country carry out social actions to distribute fresh fish free of charge.
Who is entitled to receive the fish?
Most city halls establish social criteria to define who can participate in the action. Typically, the beneficiaries are:
- Families registered in Single Registry for Federal Government Social Programs (CadĆnico);
- People with a monthly family income of less than half the minimum wage per person;
- Beneficiaries of programs such as Family Allowance, Brazil Aid and other municipal or state aid;
- Residents of communities served by social assistance programs;
- Families accompanied by CRAS places.
What is CadĆnico and why is it necessary?
O CadĆnico is a Federal Government system that identifies low-income Brazilian families. It is used as a basis for accessing various social programs, such as:
- Distribution of fish during Holy Week;
- Family Allowance;
- Social Electricity Tariff;
- Gas Aid;
- My Home, My Life;
- Senior Citizen Card;
- Exemption from public tender fees;
- Among many other benefits.
To find out more and register, visit: gov.br/services ā CadĆnico

Photo: Google Images
How do I register to receive the fish?
To participate in the fish distribution of your city's city hall, the first step is to keep the Updated CadĆnico. See how to proceed:
- Go to the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) closer to your home;
- Bring your documents: ID, CPF, proof of residence, proof of income and documents of all family members;
- Report your interest in participating in municipal social actions, such as fish distribution;
- If necessary, register on the list of beneficiaries of the action.
Which cities do this distribution?
Every year, several cities in Brazil announce their public actions focused on Holy Week. Here are some examples:
To find out if your city participates, visit official city hall website or contact your local CRAS.
Distribution Calendar
The fish delivery dates are usually announced in the two weeks leading up to Easter. Follow:
- Official website of the city hall;
- Social networks of the social assistance department;
- Local churches and community centers;
- Regional radio and television channels.
Can I register online?
Some cities already offer online pre-registration systems to facilitate the process. However, most registrations and updates still require in-person attendance at the CRAS.
Check the online pre-registration service on the Federal Government's official website:
š meucadunico.cidadania.gov.br
Important tips to ensure receipt
- Register in advance and keep your details up to date;
- Always inform the correct number of people living in the house;
- Bring original documents and copies if possible;
- Pay attention to notices from the city hall or local CRAS.
A distribution of fish during Lent It is a tradition that combines faith, culture and solidarity. With the support of social programs and the proper functioning of CadĆnico, thousands of Brazilian families are able to celebrate Holy Week with dignity and adequate food.
If you know someone who could benefit from this initiative, share this article. Information can transform the table of many families this Easter!