Running for a Reason: 412 Food Rescue at the 2025 Pittsburgh Marathon
This past weekend, our #MarathonHeroes laced up their sneakers and took to the streets for the 2025 Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, turning every mile into meaningful impact for our community.
As part of the annual Dick’s Pittsburgh Marathon Run for a Reason program, our team of 47 passionate runners raised funds for 412 Food Rescue’s mission of ending food waste and hunger. Together, they raised an incredible $17,727 this year (and counting!), which will help us rescue thousands of pounds of surplus food and deliver it directly to those experiencing food insecurity across the Pittsburgh region.
Since 2015, our Marathon Heroes have raised over $120,000 to support our mission of redirecting good food to those who need it most. By reaching our goal of $20,000 raised this year, we will be able to rescue approximately 71,000 pounds of food, equivalent to nearly 60,000 nutritious meals for the 1 in 5 Pittsburghers experiencing food insecurity.
Additionally, this effort will mitigate 194,000 pounds of CO₂ emissions, making a substantial impact on the environmental impact of wasted food.
There’s still time to help us reach our fundraising goal!
Donations will be accepted through May 31. Every contribution brings us one step closer to a more food-secure and sustainable Pittsburgh.
Thank You #MarathonHeroes
We are grateful to all the individuals who put purpose to their passion by supporting 412 Food Rescue. Your dedication and hard work are truly commendable, and we are proud to have you as part of our team!
Thank You, Volunteers!
We would be remiss not to acknowledge the incredible volunteers who made this event possible. From handing out shirts and spreading the word about our mission to supporting the community on race day, your contributions were invaluable. Volunteers at the finish line chute distributed water, sports drinks, heat sheets, and food to finishers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. You set up tables, kept supplies stocked, and cleaned up after the race, demonstrating remarkable dedication and teamwork.
Thank you, P3R!
We are also deeply grateful to P3R, the organizers of the Pittsburgh Marathon, for their generous donation of all leftover food from this year’s event to 412 Food Rescue. Thanks to their support, our team was able to redistribute an impressive 7,360 pounds of bananas, 334 pounds of sandwiches, popcorn and prepared foods, 245 pounds of bagels and Eat’n Park cookies, and 750 pounds of bottled water. These food items were delivered to a handful of our nonprofit partners, including Outreached Arms, St. Mary of Mercy/the Red Door, West Park Court, Gateway School District, and CARE412.
With the kind help of our nonprofit partner Outreached Arms, this rescue was also shared with 2nd Ave. Commons, Midtown Towers, Wood Street Commons, and UPMC Mercy Behavioral’s Crisis Intervention Residential for Adults (CIRA) and Adult Diversion & Acute Stabilization (DAS) programs. This incredible effort ensured that no good food went to waste and provided much-needed nourishment to our community.
Thank You Lead Sponsor, Gordon Food Service
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Gordon Food Service, our lead sponsor (and committed food donor since 2025!), for their unwavering support and commitment to our community. As a company headquartered in Pittsburgh, Gordon Food Service not only fosters language learning globally but also champions local initiatives that promote well-being and inclusivity. Thank you, Gordon Food Service, for making a difference with us!
Get Ready for the 2026 Marathon!
As we celebrate the successes of this year’s #MarathonHeroes, we’re already gearing up for next year’s event. The countdown is on to May 3, 2026!
By committing early, you’ll have ample time to train, fundraise, and rally support for our cause. Plus, you’ll be joining a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for running and making a positive impact.
Why Become a 2026 Marathon Hero?
- Make a Difference: Support 412 Food Rescue’s mission to reduce food waste and provide meals to those in need.
- Exclusive Benefits: Enjoy perks like training support, fundraising tools, and team camaraderie.
- Run for Free: Raise the fundraising minimum and get your registration fee refunded, allowing you to run for free while supporting a great cause.
Don’t wait—commit today to be a 2026 Marathon Hero and help us continue the fight against food waste and hunger. Sign up for our newsletter and get notified when registration for the 2026 Pittsburgh Marathon opens.
Together, we can achieve great things and create a brighter future for our community.
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