Ahh, food waste. What to do…

Earlier this year, I was at a farewell party for a leader at my organization at the time. I remember when one of my colleagues turned to the caterer and asked what was happening with the trays of leftover food. She said it was the organization policy to throw it out, and there was no way to donate the food due to liability. We were both appalled at this explanation.

When we decided to host SustainPHL, my BFF and committeewoman immediately reached out to inquire how to donate leftover (and untouched) food for good.

Plus, the liability line is actually a lie – Bill Clinton passed the Federal Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act in 1996 to relieve donors of liability for food donated in good faith.

Where to Donate Food in Philly

Food Recovery Network: This online directory has recovered 1,418,630 pounds of food since 2011. The PA option has several local universities, so we reached out to Drexel who partners with the Lombard Soup Kitchen. The ultimate do-good matchmaker!

Food Connect: There’s an app for that! Food Connect started over the DNC to take care of the excess food, but was so successful it decided to stick around. It’s easy to use: you download the app, say the quantity & where you are, and Food Connect calls you to arrange a pickup with one of their volunteers. (Plus, it has was more positive results than swiping right on other apps.) You can also donate unopened (and nonalcoholic) beverages.

Readers, we want to hear from you. Where do you donate leftover food?

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher