In the face of everything COVID-19 that is impacting our lives these days, the altruism of organizations such as Food Forward can provide much-needed inspiration.  In the “Better Together” section of our web home, we recognize several organizations that exemplify the spirit of community, compassion, and empathy.  Food Forward, like so many others, is not represented there, but it certainly qualifies. 

Founded in 2009 by Rick Nahmias in Valley Glen, California, Food Forward collects surplus fruits and vegetables through three programs: Backyard Harvesting, Farmers Market Recovery, and Wholesale Produce Market Recovery. This produce is then delivered to over 200 hunger relief organizations, ultimately reaching people in need through a variety of social service agencies.  Currently, the “gleaning” work is provided by over 7000 volunteers across Southern California at 195 produce recovery events every month.  From that first “pick” with two volunteers, that produced about 800lbs of fruit to till now, Food Forward has rescued and distributed over 100 million pounds of produce (400 million servings). 

The NRDC (Nation Resources Defense Council) reports that up to 40% of the food in the United States is wasted.  According to the California Association of Food Banks (cafoodbanks.org), California produces nearly half the nation’s fruits and vegetables and yet 1 in 8 Californians struggle with food insecurity.  “Food insecurity” is defined as the occasional lack of access to the food one needs for an active, healthy life,

In 2009 Food Forward was just an idea that came from a single individual who was inspired to do something for entirely humanitarian purposes.  It was an idea that ultimately became an act of compassion that has helped countless families in times of need.  We bring this organization to your attention because we believe that there is never a bad time or place to acknowledge the “good” that surrounds us.  If you would like to know more about this inspirational organization or know how to become involved, follow this link to  Food Forward. 

And one last note:  Our intent is to spotlight organizations such as Food Forward that inspire us to be better versions of ourselves.  If you know of one that you would like to share with us, please feel free to send the link along with a short note to Homes@Partners.Realestate.