At 412 Food Rescue, our mission to mitigate food waste and increase food access is made possible through the power of partnerships.
Our collaborations with hundreds of nonprofit organizations throughout the region are the lifeblood of our operations, enabling us to reach those in need more effectively and efficiently. The dedicated employees and volunteers at these organizations play an integral role in our shared mission, driven by a commitment to support their clients and provide them with the resources they need to thrive.
Making a Tangible Impact
Our partnerships are more than just collaborations; they are a force multiplier in the fight against food insecurity. Each nonprofit we work with brings unique strengths and insights, helping us to tailor our food delivery efforts to meet the specific needs of different communities.
Since 2015, 412 Food Rescue has worked alongside 4,098 nonprofit organizations throughout Western Pennsylvania to distribute over 32 million pounds of healthy, surplus food that would have otherwise gone to waste. That’s equivalent to 27 million meals provided to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
Addressing Barriers to Food Access
Food insecurity is often exacerbated by barriers to access, such as limited time and transportation. By partnering with local nonprofits, we are able to deliver fresh, nutritious food directly to where people already are—whether it’s a community center, a school, or another service organization.
This method of food recovery and distribution through our partnerships has enabled more than 228,000 people living in high poverty areas to be within a 15-minute walk of food support. And since over 80% of the food being rescued is highly perishable–mainly fresh, nutrient-dense items–this work is also addressing the healthy food gap that many underserved populations face.
The 412 Food Rescue network not only ensures that healthy food reaches those who need it most, but also frees up valuable time and energy for recipients to focus on other essential activities, like job hunting or being a primary caregiver.
Nonprofit Partner Spotlight: Dress For Success
One of our recent and notable partnerships was with Dress For Success, an organization dedicated to empowering women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire, and development tools. The women of 412 Food Rescue recently spent a day volunteering in Dress For Success’ warehouse, sorting clothing and learning more about their impactful work.
“Partnering with Dress for Success for their EmployHER event was a beautiful intersection of my work in operations at 412 Food Rescue and my passion for elevating women. Experiencing the joy and support among the women was incredibly rewarding. It was a refreshing change from the traditional job fair, as the atmosphere was filled with positivity and empowerment.”
– Kristie Abercrombie, Director of Logistics, 412 Food Rescue
This collaboration extended to the Dress For Success EmployHER Opportunity Event in Washington County. At this event, 412 Food Rescue provided 60 grocery bags, assembled at the Good Food Project’s Grocery Bagging Program by volunteers from a weekly donation from Gordon Food Service, to clients who were signing up for services, meeting potential employers, and receiving make-up and hair services along with an interview outfit for headshots.
“Thanks to the volunteers and organizations that come together to create the EmployHer event, I have never felt so supported during a time in which I have never felt more vulnerable. I received leads and learned about resources for myself and other women. I left with groceries that gave me one less thing to worry about that week. Thank you all for the support and love that you extend into the community. What a tremendous support system.”
– Sarah*, EmployHER Attendee (*name changed for anonymity)
This event not only addressed immediate food needs but also supported women in their journey towards economic stability and success.
Moving Forward Together
The effort to address local food insecurity is a collective effort. Through our partnerships with nonprofit organizations, like Dress for Success, we are breaking down barriers and providing critical resources to those who need them most. We are grateful for the wonderful employees and volunteers who make this possible, and we look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to ensure that everyone in our community has access to fresh, healthy food. Together, we are not just helping people survive—we are empowering them to thrive.
In line with our commitment to fostering strong community connections, we are excited to announce our upcoming Community Partner Impact Conference later this year. Following the success of last year’s Nonprofit Partner Forum, which brought together nonprofits and community organizers for a day of collaboration and dialogue, we aim to build on this momentum. The conference will cover essential topics like fundraising strategies, volunteer engagement, and enhancing support for the community. Stay tuned for more details as we continue to work together towards a more connected and empowered community.
“The 2024 Community Partner Impact Conference will be geared toward engaging, empowering, and connecting our nonprofit community partners with the intention of information gathering, skills development, and neighborhood networking. We aim to provide a meaningful experience to our community partners as we seek to expand our reach and connectivity in the communities we serve.”
– Leland Scales, Nonprofit Partner Manager, 412 Food Rescue
Thank you to all our partners, volunteers, and supporters who are helping us make a difference, one rescue at a time.
Support the work of 412 Food Rescue
Download the app to start volunteering:
Make a financial donation:
