Our Mission

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40%

of food is thrown away each year 

At the same time, nearly 1 million people in Arizona are struggling with food insecurity.

 

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We’re transforming this broken system by connecting tens of thousands of Arizonans with quality food that would have otherwise gone to waste. By reimagining what’s possible for food rescue, we’re making our community and our planet healthier.

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At Waste Not, we’re creating sustainable food systems that help people and the planet flourish.

 

We do this by eliminating food waste and hunger through innovative community partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Waste Not?

Waste Not is an Arizona nonprofit dedicated to creating sustainable food systems that help people and the planet flourish.



What do you do?

For over 30 years, Waste Not has been reimagining and reinventing the food rescue process in Arizona. Through innovative partnerships with Valley businesses and other nonprofit organizations, we rescue perishable food before it goes to waste and get it to those in need.



Why is your work so important?

A great deal of time, money, and resources go into growing nutritious food. Yet, each year, 40% of fresh food in the United States is sent to landfills, resulting in over 63 million tons of waste. As this food goes to waste, nearly 1 million in Arizona struggle with food insecurity. The health and well-being of our community and the planet are paying the price. That’s why our work of reimagining what’s possible for food rescue is so critical. By rescuing perishable food and connecting it to those in need, we’re creating sustainable food systems that help people and the planet flourish.



Who does Waste Not serve?

Our partner agencies consist of 60 Valley organizations that are making a difference in our community. These organizations include homeless shelters, transitional housing, senior facilities, preschools, after-school programs, rehabilitation centers, and food pantries. By connecting these nonprofits with fresh food, they’re able to focus on the other critical needs of the individuals and families they serve.



What is food waste?

Food waste is more than just a half-eaten apple thrown in the trash. It is fresh, edible food sent to landfills by farms, manufacturers, grocers, restaurants, and homes. This waste happens for several reasons, including:
● Overproduction ● A lack of resources to transport food ● Confusing freshness and expiration labels ● Produce that doesn’t meet retailer’s high cosmetic standards As a result, nearly 63 million tons of food is sent to landfills every year.



How can I get involved?

Whether you are a food business that has prepared food going to waste, a nonprofit that serves a hungry community, or are looking to volunteer, your involvement will protect our environment against unnecessary waste while ensuring every Arizonan in need has fresh, nutritious food on their tables. Here are a few meaningful ways to get involved: Make a Financial Donation Join us in eliminating food waste and hunger in Arizona by making a tax-deductible donation. For every $1 you give, 5 meals are donated to individuals in our community who are struggling with food insecurity. Donate Excess Food From Your Business* If you are a food business with excess perishable food, you don’t need to throw it away! We offer a simple solution for reducing your food waste while feeding those who are experiencing food insecurity. Our drivers value your food just as much as you do -- they are trained in food safety to ensure that the food you donate truly nourishes our community. If you’re ready to donate, please contact our Operations Director, Willie Black at willie@wastenotaz.org *Please note that we only accept food donations from organizations with licensed commercial kitchens, such as restaurants, caterers, and event venues. Volunteer to Drive You can DRIVE food waste out of Arizona! When you volunteer as a driver, you play a vital role in bridging the gap between surplus food and people in need. Sign-up now to attend our next volunteer training. Receive Food Donations The receiving end of Waste Not is just as important as the giving! Every day, hunger and food scarcity burdens our community. If you’re a nonprofit in the Phoenix-metro area serving people in need of food, we’d love to connect you with fresh, nutritious food donations as they are available. Please contact our Director of Operations, Willie Black willie@wastenotaz.org



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