Colleges and universities across Massachusetts continue to seek new strategies to recover wasted food. WWLP recently reported that Westfield State University has partnered with the Springfield organization Rachel’s Table to donate its excess food to families in need. Rachel’s Table, a program of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts, facilitates the donation of food to local food pantries throughout the Springfield area.

Since April 2019, a volunteer from Rachel’s Table picks up excess food from the university’s dining commons once per week and delivers it to the Springfield Rescue Mission for distribution. Through the partnership, the organizations provide local families with 30 meals each week. Both entities are excited that the new partnership is helping the community while also diverting wasted food from disposal. Rachel’s Table hopes to connect with other colleges in the Western Massachusetts area to expand local food rescue efforts.

RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts (RecyclingWorks) is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to help businesses and institutions maximize recycling, reuse, and food waste diversion opportunities. RecyclingWorks partnered with state and local health officials, food rescue organizations, food banks, and industry professionals to develop Food Donation Guidance, designed to help businesses & institutions establish successful food donation programs. To speak to a recycling and food waste diversion expert about our no-cost technical assistance, call our hotline: (888) 254-5525 or email us at info@recyclingworksma.com.