Our primary fundraising program, Team Move For Hunger, has taken us to endurance events from coast to coast. Each race is unique in its own way, but there was something we noticed that they all had in common: thousands of pounds of perfectly good food and drinks were going to waste.
Athletes competing in these events are almost always provided energy bars, bagels, bananas, sports drinks, and water to help them refuel after they cross the finish line. As exhausted as the competitors are, the organizers typically order far more than they could ever possibly distribute. What doesn't get used often ends up being thrown in the trash. We knew we had to do something about that.
Since 2014, our network of moving companies has rescued 555,000 pounds of food/beverages from races all across the country. Most recently, Dircks Moving and Logistics saved more than 4,100 pounds from the Tempe Triathlon and delivered it to the St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance.
More than 600,000 people in Maricopa County, Arizona are food insecure, including 1 in 5 children. St. Mary's is the nation's oldest food bank and has been providing meals for their neighbors in need since 1967. They distribute food to 250 partner agencies (soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters) in Maricopa County alone. It's a monumental undertaking which is only made possible by donations from people who recognize the urgency of the problem and decide to take action. While every contribution makes a difference, large donations like the one Dircks Moving and Logistics made last week are critical to ensuring they are able to assist everyone who needs a helping hand.
Thank you to Matt, Natalie, and everyone at Dircks Moving and Logistics taking the time to make a difference!
Learn more about Food Rescues and how your company can get involved.
Fight hunger in your hometown by hosting a food drive this fall.
