A Remarkable Recovery: How Green Bay Nonprofit Saved 6,600 Pounds of Food Post-NFL Draft
Transforming Leftovers into Lifelines
Green Bay was bustling with energy during the NFL Draft, but as the crowds dispersed, a staggering 6,600 pounds of food remained untouched. Thankfully, Rooted In Inc., a passionate nonprofit organization, stepped in to ensure that this bounty didn’t go to waste.
Who is Rooted In Inc.?
Founded by Selena Darrow, Rooted In Inc. is on a mission to tackle food waste head-on and provide nutritious meals for those in need. With a personal connection to poverty, Darrow emphasized the importance of their endeavor: "It was absolutely personal. I was a single mom for 20 years, and my struggles shaped this mission."
A Mission of Nourishment
Rooted In Inc. successfully recovered over 6,615 pounds of fresh and healthy food—equivalent to the weight of a smaller Asian elephant![^1] The bounty included a variety of nutritious offerings such as:
- Wholesome sandwiches
- Vibrant fruits and vegetables
- Healthy proteins
- Flavorful rice
Darrow enthusiastically shared, “The majority of food we distributed was wholesome and nutritious.” This was a remarkable triumph, as all the salvaged food found its way to 13 local shelters and nonprofit organizations across Green Bay.
Cooking Up Change: More Than Just Food Recovery
But Rooted In Inc. isn’t stopping there. The organization plans to implement cooking classes aimed at educating the community about preventing food waste. Darrow explained their holistic approach: “We will be teaching people how to shop and how to set their pantries up for success.”
This initiative not only helps people eat healthier but also empowers them with the skills to reduce waste in their own homes.
Raising Awareness and Making an Impact
As Rooted In Inc. continues to process the leftover food, Darrow remains optimistic that this partnership with the NFL will shine a spotlight on their critical mission. “We hope the exposure will raise awareness—not just to feed people, but to educate everyone about food waste prevention,” she asserted.
Join the Movement
Rooted In Inc.’s work is a powerful reminder of how communities can come together to combat food waste and support those in need. If you’re interested in learning more about their mission or helping out, visit their website and consider participating in their upcoming cooking classes.
Conclusion
In an age where food waste is a pressing concern, Rooted In Inc. serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even the leftovers from a major event can spark positive change. By transforming surplus food into meals and knowledge, they are not only feeding individuals but nourishing the community as a whole.
[^1]: Learn more about the weight of an Asian elephant here.
By following their journey, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future and advocate for those who rely on food assistance. Let’s rally behind nonprofits like Rooted In Inc. to create a world where no food goes to waste.
