#FightingFoodInsecurity #ReducingFoodWaste #ImprovingNutrition
Celebrating 9 Years of Impact: ATH's Journey in Fighting Food Insecurity
JUNE 15, 2023
At After the Harvest, we are thrilled to celebrate our 9th birthday! Over the past nine years, we have been dedicated to our mission of fighting food insecurity, reducing food waste, and improving nutrition in our community. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the incredible progress we’ve made and the impact we’ve had in alleviating hunger and nourishing those in need. Join us as we look back on our journey and the milestones we’ve achieved along the way.
Rescuing 30+ Million Pounds of Fresh Produce
Since our inception, we have rescued an astounding 30 million pounds of fruits and vegetables that would have otherwise gone to waste. This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, volunteers, and partners who work tirelessly to ensure that no nutritious produce is left behind. Through our innovative rescue operations, we are able to channel this surplus produce to those who need it the most.
Serving 378+ Agencies Fighting Food Insecurity
Collaboration is at the core of our approach to fighting food insecurity. We have had the privilege of serving more than 378 food-insecurity fighting agencies in our region. Through direct deliveries and our valued distribution partner, Harvesters – The Community Food Network, we have been able to extend our reach and ensure that fresh, nutritious produce reaches individuals and families facing food insecurity. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of people.
Addressing the Urgency: Alarming Food Insecurity Statistics
The fight against food insecurity is as urgent as ever. In our region, more than 250,000 individuals, or one in 11 people, face food insecurity. The situation is particularly distressing for our children, with one in 8 at risk of hunger. These statistics serve as a sobering reminder of the critical need for organizations like ours to continue working tirelessly to bridge the gap and provide nourishing food for those who need it most.
Partnering with Local Farmers
We are proud to have developed partnerships with over 100 local farmers who generously allow us to glean leftover produce from their fields, farms, and orchards. These partnerships not only prevent food waste but also strengthen the connection between our community and the local farming industry. Through these collaborations, we can rescue a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, offering agencies and individuals access to more than 108 varieties of fresh produce.
Reducing Waste from Farmers Markets
Our commitment to reducing food waste extends to local farmers markets as well. We have successfully rescued leftover, unsold produce from 15 farmers markets in our community. By diverting this perfectly good food from going to waste, we are not only fighting hunger but also promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate our 9th birthday, we want to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible supporters, volunteers, partner agencies, and farmers. It is through your unwavering commitment and collaboration that we have been able to make such a significant impact over the past nine years. But our work is far from done. With your continued support, we will forge ahead, striving to create a community where no one goes hungry, where food waste is minimized, and where the nutritional needs of all are met.
As After the Harvest celebrates nine years of fighting food insecurity, we recognize that our journey has only just begun. With the staggering number of individuals in our region facing food insecurity, we are more determined than ever to make a difference. Together, we can create a future where hunger is a thing of the past, and everyone has access to nutritious, fresh produce. Thank you for standing with us on this meaningful journey — and here’s to everything we’ve accomplished together so far.
