What is Bread Break's Food Rescue Program?
Bread Break may be the most powerful local food rescue and distribution program you've never heard of. Since 2011, Bread Break has rescued over $4.2 million worth of otherwise discarded food and has redistributed it to local shelters, food banks, and community organizations to help feed those facing food insecurity.
We had the privilege to meet Bread Break's founders, their new Executive Director Pam Cole at their official HQ, Messiah New Hope Church, as well as their Pastor Erik Thone. Bread Break's Food Rescue Program is a unique initiative that partners with local businesses to collect surplus food that is still fresh and edible, instead of letting this food go to waste.
Doug's very first pick-up and delivery was prepared food from KFC in Sioux Falls which was delivered to St. Francis House. Today, Bread Break has expanded its donations from restaurants, cafeterias, bakeries, coffee shops, convenience stores and grocery stores. They collect prepared food and distribute it to non-profit organizations to help those in need. Many appreciate that Bread Break distributes food to various non-profit agencies rather than just one agency.
How does the Food Rescue Program work?
When a bakery or grocery store has unsold food at the end of the day, instead of throwing it away, they can contact Bread Break for a pick-up. Bread Break's team of volunteers then collects the surplus food and delivers it to partner organizations in need. This not only reduces food waste but also provides nutritious meals to those who may not have access to them otherwise.
Bread Break tracks every pound of food it collects. As a result, businesses can deduct those donations from their taxes at a value of $1.92/lb. Recipient organizations are then able to offset their budgets.
Doug has a charming organizational style that involves only paper and pen. Pick-up and deliveries are largely retired volunteers- but Doug was on his own today.
Why is the Food Rescue Program important?
The Food Rescue Program is crucial for several reasons. First, it helps reduce food waste, which is a significant environmental issue. By rescuing surplus food and redistributing it to those in need, Bread Break is helping to minimize the amount of food that ends up in landfills, where it contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Additionally, the Food Rescue Program plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity in the community. Many individuals and families struggle to access an adequate and consistent food supply, and by providing them with rescued food, Bread Break is helping to alleviate hunger and provide much-needed support.
The Drekes hear from local non-profits that providing food for their clients helps offset time, money and energy they would have spent in meeting their food needs. This way they have more time and energy to serve clients with their particular skill set.
How can you get involved?
If you're inspired by Bread Break's Food Rescue Program and want to make a difference in your community, there are several ways to get involved. You can volunteer to help collect and deliver surplus food, donate to support the program's operations, or simply spread the word about the importance of food rescue and reducing food waste.
Together, we can all play a part in feeding hope and making a positive impact through initiatives like Bread Break's Food Rescue Program. Let's work together to ensure that no good food goes to waste and that everyone has access to the nourishment they need to thrive.
Of note on this cold day: Pick-up and deliveries are largely run by older, retired individuals- several of whom snowbird to AZ and FL. Today, Doug is on his own picking up and dropping off. Today broke a record at -22F. Nothing deters this tiny but dedicated crew.