FRESH FOOD RESCUE PROGRAM

The Calgary Food Bank in collaboration with the Calgary Co-op launched a food rescue program and it is wildly successful. Proving that food rescue is top of mind for our partners and key to helping to fight hunger, the Fresh Tote Food Rescue program recently reached a major milestone. 

This program was launched in September 2021, and to date, over 1 million pounds of fresh food, with a quality and usability rate of 98 percent has been redirected to people through food hampers built and distributed by the Calgary Food Bank. 

Five days a week, Calgary Co-op team members carefully select and pack a range of food items that are still perfectly fresh and safe for consumption but are nearing their best before dates. Items include fresh produce, dairy, frozen food, bakery and deli products, meat, and non-perishable grocery items. Product is picked up by the Calgary Food Bank, brought to the warehouse, sorted and then placed into emergency hampers and delivered to clients that same day. 

This program is active in all 24 of Calgary Co-op’s food stores in Calgary and area, including working with Food Banks in Airdrie, High River and Strathmore. President and CEO of Calgary Co-op Ken Keelor says,” The focus of Calgary Co-op’s giving strategy is improving food security. We have a long-standing relationship with the Calgary Food Bank, and we are thrilled to see the tremendous impact of our Fresh Food Rescue Program in support of the Calgary Food Bank’s Fresh Tote Food Rescue in our community. To watch the trajectory of what started as a pilot program in a handful of stores grow so quickly to every single Calgary Co-op food store is a testament to the incredible teamwork and common goal within our two organizations. Together, we’re putting fresh food into the hands of those who need it the most, an effective partnership that is transforming lives in our community.”