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Over 315 Million Pounds of Thanksgiving Food Wasted Nationwide

2024-11-29

Thanksgiving is a time of feasting and togetherness, but for many families, the leftovers often end up in the trash. National food waste nonprofit ReFED estimates that this Thanksgiving alone, more than 315 million pounds of food will be wasted. JD Hill, the founder of Recycled City, emphasizes the importance of meal prep as the best solution to combat food waste during the holidays. His food waste pick-up service collects scraps from 4,000 homes and 200 businesses across the Valley, transforming them into fertilizer for his Florence farm. The vegetables grown on the farm are then sold back to the compost customers.

Impact of Food Waste

As much as 40% of the food we produce nationwide goes uneaten, while millions of people struggle to find their next meal. Hill highlights the negative consequences of food waste, including leaving farms less fertile and costing people a significant amount of money. When food waste is sent to landfills, it doesn't break down due to the lack of oxygen, converting into methane gas that contributes to climate change. Methane gas has a potent warming effect and has a significant impact on the environment.

Composting Programs in Phoenix

Phoenix offers composting programs for those interested in learning more about proper composting. There are dos and don'ts to consider when composting at home. By understanding these guidelines, individuals can play a part in reducing food waste and its environmental impact. Click here and here for more information on Phoenix's composting programs.

Benefits of Composting

Composting not only helps reduce food waste but also has numerous benefits. It enriches the soil, making it more fertile for future crops. By using compost as fertilizer, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical fertilizers and promote sustainable agriculture. Additionally, composting can be a cost-effective solution for households and businesses, as it reduces the need for purchasing commercial fertilizers. It also helps divert waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions and minimizing the environmental footprint.

Personal Responsibility

During the season of giving thanks, it is crucial for each of us to take personal responsibility for reducing food waste. This can start with simple steps such as planning meals more carefully and avoiding overproduction. By being mindful of our food consumption and finding ways to repurpose leftovers, we can make a significant difference in reducing food waste. Small changes in our daily habits can have a big impact on the environment and help ensure that no food goes to waste.

LAKE PLACID, N.Y. (WCAX) - A significant addition to the local community has taken place with the opening of a brand new food pantry. This pantry, named "Thrive and Thrift," was first brought to our attention in June. Over the past month, it has been smoothly establishing itself in its new building adjacent to the Olympic Center in the village.

"Transforming Lives with Thrive and Thrift in Lake Placid"

Initial Impact and Community Support

Since its opening, an impressive number of people have come to avail themselves of the food pantry. Hundreds have made their way to pick up essential supplies, and on Thanksgiving alone, more than 80 families received much-needed assistance. This shows the immediate and crucial need for such a facility in the area.

The executive director, Linda Young, has been at the forefront of this initiative. With about 40 dedicated volunteers on staff, the pantry is running smoothly and efficiently. Their hard work and commitment are evident in the way the pantry is serving the community.

Plans for the Thrift Store Section

In addition to providing food, the pantry has exciting plans to open a thrift store section by the end of December. This will not only offer a source of income for the pantry but also provide a sustainable way for the community to get good quality second-hand items.

The volunteers are working hard to make this thrift store a success. They are organizing and sorting donations, getting the store ready for its grand opening. This is a great initiative that will benefit both the community and the pantry in the long run.

Donation Drive and Community Involvement

Thrive and Thrift will be starting to accept donations for the thrift store on December 7. This is an opportunity for the community to come together and support this important cause. People can donate a variety of items, from clothing to household goods, which will be sold in the thrift store.

The involvement of the community is crucial for the success of the pantry and the thrift store. By donating and supporting these initiatives, residents are helping to make a positive impact on the lives of their neighbors. It shows the power of community spirit and how together, we can make a difference.

Tyler, Texas (KLTV) - In a remarkable turn of events, the "Lone Star Showdown" has made a triumphant return after a span of 13 long years. This highly anticipated event has sparked excitement among both fans and the local community.

Uniting Football Rivalry with Community Service

Football's Return and Fan Excitement

After a prolonged absence, the "Lone Star Showdown" has once again taken center stage. Cliff Henry, a member of Smith County Texas Exes, a University of Texas alumni group, expressed his eagerness by saying, "We cant wait. Like, before the season started we circled this game." The anticipation among fans is palpable, as they look forward to witnessing the clash of these two football powerhouses.This game is not just about football; it holds a special place in the hearts of the alumni groups in Smith County. As Henry further explained, "We are taking out drive, of one – being passionate about UT, but also being passionate about Tyler as a whole, our community, and especially of keeping Tyler beautiful. This is part of it." It represents a unity between their love for the university and their commitment to their hometown.

The Role of PATH in the Rivalry

PATH, a nonprofit organization, has stepped in to add a unique dimension to this rivalry. The group provides a wide range of services, from a food pantry to transitional housing programs. In this instance, they are taking the rivalry off the field by seeing which fan base is able to donate more to the pantry. Kimberly Meler, the marketing director for PATH, shared her perspective, saying, "In some ways introduce a rivalry to a new generation that hasn’t participated in it, and then for some of us older folks we are getting to rekindle something we had a lot of fun with for a really long time. So I think it’s fun."The food pantry serves nearly 150 people a day, and the increased need during the holiday season makes this food drive all the more crucial. Meler emphasized the significance, stating, "For PATH’s bottom line it makes all the difference in the world. That’s money we then get to save towards our operating expenses." It shows how this rivalry can have a tangible impact on the community.

Implications for the Universities and Beyond

The game being played on Saturday night holds significant implications for both the University of Texas and Texas A&M. While the food drive will only give bragging rights to the winner, Meler sees it as a "win-win" for everyone. She explained, "The game really does fall at a prime time for us. So it’s kind of a win-win. We get to have fun with the game. We get to have fun with our fellow Aggies and Longhorns, and we get to provide at a time when really people are at their most vulnerable and in need."Those looking to donate in person can do so at the PATH location on 402 West Front Street until Monday at 5 p.m. Additionally, there are five other locations accepting donations, including Cooperative Teachers Credit Union – 1424 W SW Loop 323, Sister 2 Sister Cookies – 135 Shelley Drive, both Azalea Orthopedic locations – 3414 Golden Rd & 8101 South Broadway Ave, and House of Wynne – 102 East 8th Street.This event truly showcases the power of unity and community service. It brings together football fans, alumni, and the local community in a meaningful way, making a positive impact on those in need.