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South Washington County Schools & Nonprofit Join Forces for Food Rescue
2024-12-06
South Washington County Schools and a nonprofit have come together in a remarkable effort to combat food waste. Zoey Petersen, a dedicated food rescue warrior, emphasizes the significance of this issue, stating that a significant portion of the food produced globally goes uneaten. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency also highlights the extent of the problem, with 62% of food thrown out by Minnesotans being potentially edible or donateable.

Join Forces to Prevent Food Waste and Feed the Needy

Introduction to the Food Rescue Program

During the last school year under the state-funded School Meals Program, an impressive 2.7 million meals were served in South Washington County Schools. However, this increase also led to more food waste. Items like granola bars and full containers of milk were often left behind. Under the Pilot Food Rescue Program launched in October, nutrition staff now sort and store unused food items. Basic Needs volunteers pick them up approximately once a week, and sometimes more frequently. In November alone, the nonprofit collected 1,435 pounds of food from five different schools. Now, they are collaborating with three more schools and anticipate collecting even more food, including snacks, canned goods, cereal, and fresh fruit.

This food will play a crucial role in feeding the 200 people who visit the Basic Needs Food Market each day. It's a great example of how the community can work together to pool resources and prevent food waste from going to waste. As Tina Altman from Cottage Grove, whose daughter attends the district, notes, "When we can have the community work together to pool their resources together and not waste the food and have it go to a good cause, that's the reason for the season."

Impact of Food Waste

Food waste is not only a global issue but also a significant problem in the United States. As Zoey Petersen points out, a fifth of the food produced for human consumption worldwide is never eaten. In Minnesota alone, food waste makes up 18% of landfills. This is a waste of resources and has a negative impact on the environment. By implementing the food rescue program, South Washington County Schools and Basic Needs are making a positive difference.

Through their collaboration, they are able to divert unused food from the trash bin and put it to good use. This not only helps to reduce food waste but also provides much-needed nourishment to those in need. It's a win-win situation that showcases the power of community cooperation.

Benefits of the Food Rescue Program

The food rescued from the schools includes a variety of items, such as breakfast food like applesauce, cranberries, and fresh produce. These perishable items would otherwise go to waste. By collecting and distributing this food, Basic Needs is able to provide a diverse range of options for the 200 people who visit the market each day.

It's not just about providing food; it's about making a difference in people's lives. The food rescue program has the potential to touch the lives of many and help alleviate hunger in the community. It's a small step that can have a big impact.

Future Plans and Expectations

With the success of the Pilot Food Rescue Program, South Washington County Schools and Basic Needs are looking to expand their efforts. They aim to involve more schools and increase the amount of food collected and distributed. By working together, they hope to make a lasting impact on food waste and hunger in the area.

Their dedication and commitment serve as an inspiration to others, showing that even small actions can lead to significant change. As they continue to grow and evolve, they will be setting an example for other communities to follow.

Sports News on December 6: ENG vs NZ 2nd Test - Harry Brook's Centurylike Performance
2024-12-06
In the ever-evolving realm of sports, each match and series injects a new wave of excitement. Our dedicated Sports News platform provides real-time updates and in-depth coverage of a diverse range of sports events, including cricket series, hockey showdowns, and badminton tournaments. We bring you right to the heart of the games you hold dear. Whether it's the nail-biting last-ball finishes in cricket, the high-stakes hockey matches, or the intense badminton rallies, we offer valuable insights, key moments, and remarkable player achievements. Our mission is to ensure that you remain closely connected to the latest sports action, be it a league championship, an international series, or an outstanding individual performance. Stay informed and be at the forefront of the biggest stories in the sports world.

Unlock the Thrills of Sports with Our Live Updates

Cricket News Today Live: India vs Australia, 2nd Test

During the India vs Australia 2nd Test in Adelaide, the question arose as to why Rohit Sharma chose Ravichandran Ashwin over Washington Sundar. India had previously played only one pink-ball Test in Australia, ending in a loss in 2018. Australia, on the other hand, holds a remarkable record of winning 11 out of 12 day-night Tests at home. This decision by Rohit Sharma sparked much speculation and interest among cricket fans. To understand the reasoning behind this choice and its potential impact on the game, one must delve deeper into the strategies and player dynamics. The 2nd Test presented a unique challenge for both teams, and Rohit Sharma's selection of Ashwin over Sundar added an extra layer of intrigue. It will be fascinating to see how this decision unfolds and how it affects the course of the match.

As the game progresses, every ball bowled and every run scored becomes crucial. The tension builds with each over, and the outcome hangs in the balance. The choice of players like Ashwin and Sundar can significantly influence the flow and outcome of the match. Cricket enthusiasts around the world are eagerly following this encounter, hoping to witness some memorable moments and see their favorite teams emerge victorious. The 2nd Test between India and Australia is not just a battle on the field but also a test of skills, strategies, and mental fortitude.

Cricket News Today Live: ENG vs NZ 2nd Test

In the ENG vs NZ 2nd Test, Harry Brook's counterattacking ton proved to be a game-changer. After a difficult start, Brook's 91-ball century and his crucial partnership with Ollie Pope helped England recover to 280. This remarkable performance not only elevated Brook to the second position in the ICC Test rankings but also instilled new hope and confidence in the English team. His ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver when it mattered most showcased his true mettle as a cricketer.

The partnership between Brook and Pope was a sight to behold. Their combined efforts and understanding on the field helped England weather the early storm and mount a comeback. Brook's aggressive batting style and his ability to take on the opposition bowlers added a new dimension to the English innings. His century not only boosted his own career but also had a positive impact on the team's overall performance. As the Test match continues, the eyes of cricket fans around the world will be fixed on Brook and his teammates, eager to see how they build on this momentum and secure a victory.

Hockey News Today Live: Intense Showdowns on the Rink

In the world of hockey, every match is a battle of skill, strategy, and determination. The high-stakes hockey showdowns bring out the best in the players, as they compete fiercely for victory. From the fast-paced attacks to the solid defense, every aspect of the game is crucial. The intensity on the rink is palpable, as the players give their all to outwit their opponents.

Each hockey tournament is a unique experience, filled with thrilling moments and unexpected twists. The players showcase their exceptional athleticism and teamwork, leaving the spectators on the edge of their seats. Whether it's a close encounter or a blowout victory, hockey always delivers excitement and entertainment. The sport has a special place in the hearts of fans, and these live updates keep them connected to the action, ensuring that they don't miss a single moment of the intense hockey showdowns.

Badminton News Today Live: Intense Rallies and Spectacular Shots

In the realm of badminton, the intense rallies and spectacular shots are what make the sport so captivating. The players move with lightning speed, executing precise shots and maneuvers that leave the audience in awe. From the powerful smashes to the delicate drops, every aspect of badminton requires exceptional skill and precision.

The badminton tournaments are a platform for the world's best players to showcase their talent and compete for glory. The intense rivalries and the desire to win drive the players to perform at their best. The rallies are a test of endurance and mental strength, as the players battle it out shot for shot. Whether it's a singles or doubles match, badminton never fails to deliver excitement and drama. These live updates bring the action to the fans, allowing them to experience the thrill of badminton from the comfort of their homes.

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Los Angeles Homeless Man's Car Vandalism: 1 Night in Jail
2024-12-06
At the corner of Hollywood and Highland, a video emerged showing a homeless man leaping onto the hood of a car and then shattering its windshield. This is just one among the countless scenes witnessed across Los Angeles and California where homeless individuals, grappling with addiction or mental illness, engage in property vandalism, assault people, and in some cases, even commit murder.

Therapist's Perspective

The woman who captured this distressing video happens to be a therapist dedicated to treating the unhoused. Madeleine, who preferred to be identified by her first name only, shared her thoughts. "It was clearly a cry for help. It seemed as if he had reached the end of his tether." This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex issues faced by homeless individuals and the urgent need for appropriate support.

Adam Noel's Story

The man in the video was later identified as 30-year-old Adam Noel, who had a lengthy criminal history. He was charged with felony vandalism but was released from jail the very next day. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the justice system in dealing with homeless individuals and their underlying problems. Without proper intervention and support, such incidents are likely to continue recurring.

Non-profit's Efforts

Kerry Morrison founded Hollywood 2.0, a non-profit organization aimed at helping homeless people with mental health issues. "We don't know where he is now," Morrison said. "Our ideal scenario would be for a crisis team to be immediately mobilized to directly connect with him and provide the necessary assistance. However, even though there are numerous agencies and nonprofits in the Los Angeles area spending hundreds of millions of dollars annually on homelessness, getting these individuals the services they need and ensuring their compliance can be a challenging task."

Funding Issues

An Los Angeles County audit revealed that over $50 million in homeless funds went unaccounted for, while an Los Angeles city audit found that $513 million earmarked for homeless programs was never spent. These figures highlight the inefficiencies and mismanagement within the system. LA Mayor Karen Bass expressed her concerns, stating, "I can't envision there will be enough (services) available, but what I do hope is that there will be an increase in resources and a more coordinated approach to address this issue."

Homeless Advocates' Call

Homeless advocates, including Madeleine the therapist, have a clear message for the mayor and other politicians. "Other cities have successfully tackled this problem. We are a city filled with brilliant and creative minds. I believe we have the potential to make a significant impact and start making a dent in this issue," Madeleine said. It is essential that all stakeholders work together to find sustainable solutions and provide the necessary support to those in need.
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