Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton Rouge (CCDBR) has launched its retail rescue food program, in partnership with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. With funding from the Walmart Foundation and Feeding America, this life-saving program aims to reduce food waste and address food insecurity.
According to Feeding America, more than 16 million pounds of food goes to waste every year. In an effort to reduce that waste and provide essential resources to those in need, CCDBR picks up the food that would normally be discarded by retail stores. It is then distributed to CCDBR clients through one of the monthly food distribution sites. We also work with community partners or “spokes” to expand our reach to individuals and families facing food insecurity. The food is either picked up by the spoke or CCDBR delivers to them. Some of the spokes include St. Vincent de Paul, O’Brien House, and LSU Student Food Bank.
“There’s no better way to support our community than by distributing to those in need of food that would otherwise go to waste,” said Stephanie Sterling, CCDBR executive director. “I’m incredibly proud that we can be a part of this important initiative and work alongside our community partners to ensure this food gets to those who need it most.”
Since its inception earlier this year, the CCDBR retail rescue food program has already achieved significant impact, having rescued and redistributed 31,494 pounds of food from retail locations. The estimated value of this recovered food exceeds $60,460, demonstrating the program’s immediate and substantial contribution to the community.
To continue and expand this life-saving ministry, the Faith-Full Food Program is actively seeking volunteers and donations from the community. To learn more about how you can get involved and support this vital program, visit CatholicCharitiesBR.org.
