Getting food to people who need it while also reducing food waste requires many hands. As one food recovery non-profit leader said, “We need everybody to get involved. It’s not like one group can do the best job. It’s a spectrum all the way from the farmers to the families.” And, especially important are the volunteers! A robust network of community members committed to food recovery – moving surplus food from businesses like grocery stores to individuals and families facing food insecurity – exists in San Mateo County. Everyone is welcome to participate.

It’s never say die for volunteers who aim to repair coffee makers, toys, vacuum cleaners, lamps, furniture and more. With a broken toaster oven in hand, Courtenay Owens of San Mateo had come to the right place. “It has completely died,” she explained. “No heat at all.”