Denver Food Rescue - Archived

What We Do:

We increase health equity with Denver neighborhoods by rescuing high-quality, fresh produce and perishable foods that would otherwise be thrown away by grocery stores, farmers markets, and produce distributors. With the help of our amazing volunteers, the food we rescue is delivered (often biked!) to Denver neighborhoods for direct distribution at No Cost Grocery Programs (NCGPs). NCGPs are co-created with existing community organizations like schools, recreation centers, and nonprofits that are already established and trusted within the neighborhood, decreasing transportation barriers. Residents of the NCGP community lead the distribution of rescued food, and many also help with food rescue shifts. This participation decreases stigma of traditional food pantries, empowering each neighborhood to create a program that is appropriate for their culture & community.

Values:

• Health equity
  At DFR we believe that health is a right that should be enjoyed by everyone. The current system creates health gaps between people, particularly impacting low-income people and people of color. There is no blanket solution to improve the health of our communities. Instead, we need to be intentional about creating access to the services and education each person needs to make informed health decisions. We believe in a world in which a person’s health is not determined by their race, income, or geography.
• Food security
  Each individual deserves to have control of their own food situation. This means to have enough food for themselves and their families, and to not stress about running out. Whether this self determination is made possible through increased wages or increased access, our communities deserve to have the amount and type of food that best serves them.
• Integration of feedback
  DFR believes in constant learning and improvement. We recognize that we alone do not have the answers. Lasting solutions will only be formed through consistent and authentic engagement with people who are experiencing the issues we exist to address. DFR is deferential to the perspectives of these individuals and holds them to the highest regard. We are also informed by evidence-based, scientific research and internal evaluation practices. Where all three of these perspectives overlap (community, scientific, and internal) lies the framework for our actions.