As the holiday season approaches, hearts are filled with warmth and a spirit of generosity begins to sweep across communities. One significant day that encapsulates this spirit is Giving Tuesday—a global movement dedicated to charitable giving. In the midst of this season of compassion, 412 Food Rescue urges you to join us and countless others in making a meaningful impact.
History
Giving Tuesday, which falls on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving each year, was introduced in 2012 as a response to the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It serves as a reminder to prioritize giving back and supporting the causes that matter most. In the years since its inception, this day has grown into a global phenomenon, bringing people together to celebrate the power of generosity. In 2022, more than 35 million people and 85 countries participated on Giving Tuesday by either donating or volunteering.
To build on the national awareness of this global day of giving, the Pittsburgh Magazine launched Give Big Pittsburgh in 2017 to support the local nonprofits doing great work in our community. With typically over 500 participating nonprofits, Pittsburghers can conveniently donate to the cause, or causes, they care about most. With over $13 million contributed over the years, this day has proven to be essential to funding the efforts that make our community a better place.
Last year, 412 Food Rescue was able to raise over $50,000 from 445 donors, a significant percentage of the funds required to facilitate the food recovery and redistribution efforts across the region.
The Power of Collaboration in Pittsburgh
At 412 Food Rescue, we believe that the success of meaningful impact lies in collaboration, so we are especially grateful to once again be a part of this day of giving alongside the other nonprofits making a difference in Pittsburgh. We have witnessed firsthand the incredible power of collaboration–our mission to fight food waste and hunger is made possible through the dedication of our nonprofit distribution partners. These partners play a crucial role in bridging the gap between surplus food and those in need, turning a shared vision into meaningful action.
On a monthly basis, 412 Food Rescue works with over 590 food retailers and 410 nonprofit partners, expanding access to more than 250,000 individuals not reached by existing food security networks. Since launching the organization in 2015, more than 29 million pounds of healthy surplus food has been redirected to those in need. That’s equivalent to 24.8 million meals for those experiencing food insecurity and has mitigated 51 million pounds of CO2 emissions in the process.
In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, we extend our deepest gratitude to these subsidized daycare centers, family, senior, and veteran support centers, housing sites, and other partners who stand by our side, making it possible for us to rescue and redistribute surplus food to those who need it most. Together, we create a network of compassion that reaches every corner of our community.
Supporting the Greater Cause
Now, more than ever, the importance of donating on Giving Tuesday cannot be overstated. The challenges of the past couple of years, especially economically, have underscored the critical role nonprofits play in supporting vulnerable populations. This year, we encourage you to explore the diverse array of nonprofits participating in Give Big Pittsburgh. Your generosity can extend beyond our mission to include organizations tackling issues ranging from education and healthcare to environmental conservation and social justice.
By supporting causes that matter to you, you have the power to open doors to education, health, and a better future for individuals and communities. Every dollar donated, every door opened, brings us one step closer to a world where everyone has the ability to pursue living their best life.
This Giving Tuesday, let’s come together to unlock hope, open doors, and make a lasting impact. Whether you choose to help 412 Food Rescue reach their $100,000 Giving Tuesday goal, or another organization close to your heart, your contribution matters. Embrace the spirit of collaboration, give generously, and let’s build a brighter future for all.
Visit Give Big Pittsburgh to discover the organizations in need of your support, and remember, the power to make a difference lies within each of us.
Take Action
👀 Read more about Ways to Give Back this Holiday Season
🚗 Volunteer with 412 Food Rescue
📣 Spread the word
Will you encourage your social networks to donate to 412 Food Rescue on Giving Tuesday?
Just a quick post (bonus points for a short video!) about why you love 412 Food Rescue and invite your followers to donate at: https://www.givebigpittsburgh.com/organizations/412-food-rescue. Check out our fundraising toolkit for inspiration.
Click here to add a reminder to your calendar.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to DanielleDeWitt@412foodrescue.org.
