Food Recovery Network Celebrates Milestone Achievement
Food Recovery Network (FRN) is excited to share a significant milestone as it approaches the recovery of 100,000 pounds of surplus food, collaborating with Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. Over the past two years, this partnership has broadened its reach to ten hunger-relief organizations in the community, resulting in nearly 85,000 meals served to those in need.
Regina Harmon, Executive Director of FRN, emphasized the vital nature of this collaboration: "Our partnership with Gaylord National has proven to be transformative for our community. Each pound of food rescued alleviates hunger and showcases the impact of collective efforts. As we near the 100,000-pound threshold, we invite everyone to join us in our mission to minimize food waste, connect individuals in need with nourishing food, and positively influence our climate.”
Partnership Growth and Impact on Local Communities
Since the initiation of this partnership in June 2023, FRN has been actively involved in picking up surplus food from Gaylord National every two weeks. On average, Gaylord’s culinary team saves approximately 1,200 pounds of viable food from events hosted at their conference center every two weeks. This proactive effort significantly contributes to reducing food waste while simultaneously boosting food availability for local charities.
Chef Richard Snyder, Central Union Mission Kitchen Manager, noted the importance of this initiative: "With rising food costs and increasing demand, the support from Food Recovery Network is invaluable. Their provision of hundreds of trays of prepared, high-quality meals allows us to offer nearly all our breakfasts and many lunches to individuals facing homelessness. Their commitment to minimizing waste and feeding our community fortifies our ongoing efforts, and we sincerely appreciate their partnership.”
Long-Lasting Commitment to Sustainability
Gaylord National expresses its dedication to maintaining and enhancing the sustainability of this collaboration. Hotel Manager Ryan Verhulst highlighted, "Food recovery is vital for achieving our sustainability objectives. Being part of the Marriott family means we commit to caring for our environment and diminishing our ecological footprint. This effort includes reducing food waste and increasing our contributions to local families in need. Collaborations like ours with the Food Recovery Network are essential to these efforts.”
Getting Involved in Food Recovery Initiatives
As FRN reaches this exciting milestone, they encourage everyone to partake in their journey toward hitting the monumental 100,000-pound mark. Engaging with Food Recovery Network is an excellent way to contribute to the well-being of the community. Together, we can instill lasting change that benefits both the community and the environment.
If you are interested in joining this initiative, whether it be through food recovery events or connecting with Regina Harmon, Chief Executive Officer, please reach out to Sarah Corbin, Director of Communications, at 708-714-1357. Your involvement could help turn this goal into a shared success.
About Food Recovery Network
Food Recovery Network (FRN) stands as the largest student-driven movement focused on recovering surplus food and combating hunger within the United States. By partnering with over 8,000 college students, food suppliers, farmers, and local businesses, FRN actively tackles climate change and hunger. They accomplish this by redistributing surplus food from across the supply chain to local nonprofit organizations dedicated to feeding individuals in need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Food Recovery Network?
The Food Recovery Network (FRN) is a student-led initiative focused on recovering surplus food and addressing hunger in the U.S.
How much food has FRN recovered?
FRN is on track to recover 100,000 pounds of surplus food, benefitting local communities and hunger relief organizations.
What is the role of Gaylord National in this initiative?
Gaylord National collaborates with FRN to recover surplus food from its events, significantly contributing to local hunger relief efforts.
How can individuals get involved with FRN?
Individuals can participate in food recovery events or contact FRN for additional opportunities to contribute to the cause.
What impact does reducing food waste have on the environment?
Reducing food waste helps minimize landfill overflow, decreases greenhouse gas emissions, and fosters sustainability in food systems.
