Pitch In Against Food Insecurity

Groups and individuals alike can help neighbors in need. Here are ways Bergenites can donate time, resources and supplies.

Remember when Mom used to scold you when you didn’t finish dinner? “There are starving kids who could’ve eaten that,” she’d remark after we tossed uneaten bread and veggies into the trash.

Mom’s message is partially behind the mission of global Stop Food Waste Day, April 24, a day that brings awareness of and promotes solutions to food waste. For example, did you know, 33 percent of all food produced globally is lost or wasted every single year? And just a quarter of the food wasted globally could be used to feed the 795 million undernourished people in the world, says Compass Group USA, which started Stop Food Waste Day in 2017.

Locally, nonprofit groups like Saddle Brook-based Table to Table has been doing its part to help combat food waste. As one of its many initiatives, the organization collects fresh, nutritious and perishable food — from restaurants, grocery stores and other businesses — that would otherwise be discarded and wasted. Volunteers then deliver the food for free to groups that serve residents in need throughout Bergen County and neighboring communities.

Individual Efforts Help Too.

It’s not just companies that can help feed hungry neighbors —individuals also can get involved. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024, Table to Table recently launched its I-Rescue App, powered by Food Rescue Hero. The handy tech tool allows volunteers to help rescue and deliver fresh food to those facing food insecurity.

What are other ways you can help on Stop Food Waste Day (or any other day)? Table to Table has a checklist of 25 ways you can join the initiative. The list includes:

• Sign up for our “Bag A Lunch, Help A Bunch” program.
• Join the golf fundraiser on June 10.
• Attend the 25^th anniversary Chefs Gala on Sept. 25.
• Plan grocery shopping around heart-healthy recipes so you only buy what you need.

Those who want to and have the resources to help can also donate non-perishable items to Bergen County’s many food pantries and shelters. While giving usually happens around the end-of-year holidays, spring and summer are critical times because donations tend to drop off.

Credit: https://www.healthandlifemags.com/pitch-in-against-food-insecurity/