In the heart of Summit County, Colorado, a remarkable organization is leading the charge against food waste and hunger. CAFE Food Rescue, a trailblazing initiative, is not only diverting surplus food from landfills but also ensuring it reaches the hands of those in need. This innovative approach is reshaping the way communities address the dual challenges of food insecurity and environmental sustainability.

Empowering Communities, One Meal at a Time

Repurposing the Past to Feed the Future

The transformation of a former Pizza Hut into the headquarters of CAFE Food Rescue is a testament to the organization's ingenuity and determination. Diane Calvin, the Executive Director, recognized the need for a commercial space that could safely repackage and distribute the food they recovered. With the support of the town of Silverthorne, CAFE Food Rescue found the perfect location to expand its operations and make a tangible difference in the community.

The old fast-food restaurant now serves as a hub of activity, where volunteers and staff work tirelessly to collect, sort, and redistribute food that would have otherwise ended up in landfills. By partnering with local events, banquets, and the Keystone Conference Center, CAFE Food Rescue is able to intercept surplus food and channel it towards community dinners and food banks, ensuring that no edible meal goes to waste.

As Chef Bruno Torres, who collaborates with CAFE Food Rescue, explains, "I know there's some people out there that just need help. People just need an extra push, a helping hand." His dedication to providing leftover food from his kitchen at the Keystone Conference Center is a testament to the organization's ability to forge meaningful partnerships and harness the generosity of the community.

Tackling the Hunger Crisis, One Meal at a Time

The impact of CAFE Food Rescue's efforts is undeniable. Diane Calvin, the Executive Director, estimates that the organization could recover half of the surplus food in Summit County, effectively filling half of the "missing meals" that contribute to the community's food insecurity. With 1,046 missing meals every day, the need for their services is clear.

By repackaging and distributing the food they collect, CAFE Food Rescue is not only reducing waste but also ensuring that those in need have access to nutritious meals. The volunteers and staff at the organization's hub, The Hub, work tirelessly to sort, package, and deliver the food to local food banks and community dinners, making a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve.

As Calvin aptly states, "It's a job that you have to work yourself out of." The ultimate goal of CAFE Food Rescue is to address the root causes of hunger and food insecurity, empowering communities to become self-sufficient and resilient. By diverting food waste and channeling it towards those in need, the organization is taking a holistic approach to tackling this complex issue.

A Collaborative Effort: Harnessing the Power of Community

The success of CAFE Food Rescue is a testament to the power of community collaboration. From the town of Silverthorne's support in providing the organization with a suitable space to the dedicated efforts of volunteers and partners like Chef Bruno Torres, the collective commitment to addressing food waste and hunger is truly inspiring.

As Torres shares, "We donate the most food out of everybody in the community to Cafe Food Rescue." This level of engagement and contribution from local businesses and individuals is crucial in sustaining the organization's mission and expanding its reach. By fostering these partnerships, CAFE Food Rescue is not only addressing the immediate needs of the community but also cultivating a culture of shared responsibility and collective action.

The journey of CAFE Food Rescue is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering dedication. In a world where food waste and hunger coexist, this organization is proving that solutions are within reach. By transforming the old into the new, CAFE Food Rescue is paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future, one meal at a time.