Guest post by Kristy Wolfe, Executive Director, Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation
In the latest episode of our podcast, we delved into the pressing issues of food waste and food insecurity with Cory Rianson, the executive director of the Leftovers Foundation. The Leftovers Foundation is an organization that has been tackling these issues since its inception in 2012, growing its presence across Alberta and Manitoba. Cory took us on a journey, revealing the concerning issue of student food insecurity in Canada, debunking common misconceptions about food insecurity, and discussing how technology is being harnessed to improve the efficiency of food rescue.
Food rescue, also known as gleaning recovery, is a practice with significant environmental and social benefits. It involves redirecting perfectly good food from going to waste to those in need. The Leftovers Foundation has developed an innovative app called Rescue Food that connects volunteers with businesses looking to donate food. This practice of food rescue not only helps those in need but also contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and global warming caused by food waste.
The conversation took an interesting turn when we discussed the Leftovers Foundation’s Home Harvest program. This unique initiative is aimed at reducing food waste by redirecting good food from landfills to tables. The program works with home growers to rescue excess produce and distribute it to those in need. It’s a testament to how individuals and businesses can make a positive impact in their communities and contribute to a zero-waste future.
One of the highlights of the episode was learning about individuals and organizations making waves in their communities. One such example is Chef Dean from Saffron Catering in Calgary. Despite running his own catering company, Dean drives food out to Siksika every week, highlighting how community connection and mobilization are integral to the success of food rescue initiatives.
The podcast episode ended with a call to action for listeners to get involved in the fight against food waste and insecurity. This can be done by volunteering, downloading the Rescue Food app, connecting with potential food donors, and supporting the work of the Leftovers Foundation.
The conversation with Cory Rianson underscores the importance of community engagement, technological innovation, and proactive measures in tackling food waste and insecurity. By highlighting the work of the Leftovers Foundation and other similar organizations, we hope to inspire listeners to take action in their own communities, contributing to a future where food waste is a thing of the past and food insecurity is adequately addressed.
Listen to the Give Amplify Connect podcast episode here
You can learn more about the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation at wolfepackwarriors.com
