March Food Rescue Newsletter

Hello Everyone,

 

Recently, a friend of mine was attending a not for profit seminar intended to “ignite the passion” of the attendees of the seminar for the organizations they serve.  The question they used at the outset has not left me since it was shared with me few weeks ago.  The question was simple.  “What would happen if your organization did not exist?”

 

As the economic crisis in our country continues, not for profits are in a fight for their very existence.  There are many organizations that will not survive as people make choices of where their limited resources will go. It will take passionate people in many cases who truly believe the negative impact of the potential demise of an organization is worth fighting for.  Those organizations with high impact and low overhead operating costs should be in position to whether the storm.  Food Rescues operating budget is $55,000 to manage 19 states, 46 chapter presidents, 1500 volunteers with nearly 1000 monthly “food rescues” and over 3 million dollars in annual retail value food given away to people in need.  We have one of the lowest operating budgets per volunteer and per citizen who receives our services in the country. 

 

Our hope is that our lean operating expenses in relation to the high impact we have around the country will result in the survival and continued growth of Food Rescue, however, these facts alone will not make it happen.  The reality is that Food Rescue is currently under it’s lean operating budget, and we are funded by 36 donors and 1 church.  For our mission to be sustained, we need to grow our annual donor base to 500 people (a 500 club) contributing $50 annually.  We are too dependent on a small number of donors, which is ironic because our organizaiton is quite the opposite, with so many volunteers doing a very small thing to make a very big difference in the lives of people around the country. 

 

Today we are asking our volunteer base to help us fund our organizaiton by becoming part of our ”Food Rescue 500 Club” and asking friends to do the same by making a $50 annual contribution if you are able, and if you feel the impact of our demise would have a negative impact on our country.  You can do it one of three ways:  1)  Send a check made to Food Rescue at the address found here , (you will have to scroll down a bit).  2) Use the Food Rescue Pay Pal account. 3)  If you are in Indianapolis, sign up at this link for or our walk a thon on April 25th from 9AM to 11AM in the Grace Community Church parking lot, where we will have breakfast,lunch, and lots of food coupons from our vendors, and great fellowship as we celebrate our first year of existence. I would love to meet all of you that have made such incredible sacrifices to serve people in need. 

 

In other news, I’d like to welcome Candice Saltsman in Hillsboro Oregon, Tresha Souza in Salinas CA, Cheryl Jackson in Plano TX,  Aaron Overfield in St. Louis MO, Rosey Zielke in Novi Michigan, and Ellen Thomas in Cambridge OH, and Carl Gilmour In San Antonio TX as chapter presidents.   Also, our chapter president in St. Paul Minnesota, Lynette Harris, has started a Food Shelf called “Moms Shelf” serving 450 families each month.  She started with one pick up at one location about a year ago.  Finally, I am actually writing this newsletter from Florida, as I am speaking at three churches and strategizing with our largest chapter outside of Indianapolis in Jacksonville Florida.  From my first stop, it looks like we will be starting a chapter in  Naples FL very soon, as well as adding to our support.  Thanks for each and every one of you that has supported Food Rescue with your time, talents, and treasures.

 

God bless,

 

John Williamson

Food Rescue Founder

jw@foodrescue.net

1-317-694-4006

Food Rescue Stories

Hello,

The stories the have come out of Food Rescue always humble me.  Lynette in St. Paul MN since starting a Food Rescue chapter has decided to open her own Food Shelf called “Mom’s Shelf”.  She works with 10 vendors and services 450 families, and recently received a $15,000 grant to care for people in her community.  She is an inspiration to the entire Food Rescue family.  Thank you Lynette Harris for your wonderful heart for serving people in your community.

Food Rescue is approaching our 1000′th monthly food rescue, with over 3 million dollars in annual retail value food rescues, in 19 states, with 46 chapter presidents, and 1500 plus volunteers.   That is a long way away from the 4 bags of bread my family delivered for the first time in Nov. of 2007 to Third Phase in Indy.

Recently, a friend of mine involved in a not for profit business was at a conference with the intent to “stoke the fire” of the participants, and she was asked the following question:  “What would happen if the organization you work for no longer existed?” I am honored to work alongside all of you involving ourselves in a humanitarian project that we can know for certain is benefiting so many people in our troubled economic times, and would be sorely missed if it ceased to exist.  My fire was definitely stoked considering the question.

God bless,

John

Fun Time for Food Rescuers

Hello FoodRescuers, 

Just a note for Indiana folks to please sign up for the walkathon at the link below if you plan to attend on April 25th from 9AM to 11AM.  Lunch provided and many coupons and goodies from the vendors that partner with us will be given away.  Our goal is to have 100 walkers walk a mile for Food Rescue and raise $120 each.   Registering is critical for our planning purposes.  Thanks in advance for your tireless support of Food Rescue.

http://foodrescuewalkathon.eventbrite.com/

 

God bless!

Large Food Establishments and Food Rescue

I have mentioned in previous archives that executives from Little Caesars and Tim Hortons, each with over 2500 franchises, have been in contact with me regarding the mechanics of Food Rescue.   Last week an Executive for Tim Hortons in New York called me and said that they were ready to do a trial run in New York, where they have 34 stores.  It just so happens that we have a Chapter President, Lisa Wheeler,  in Rochester New York, very close to some of the stores.  Amazing.

I had given them a memo to study regarding what motivates Panera to have a corporate policy to give away their unused food at the end of the day.  It juxtaposed 2 questions.  1)  Is Panera Bread more kind hearted than everybody else in their industry?  Or 2) Do they know something you don’t know or understand?  I then went on to describe the Good Samaritan Laws, tax laws, and free advertising benefits that go along with the morally obvious portion of not throwing good food away.  I also pointed out that Panera is a publicly traded company, and that they have to answer to shareholders for decisions they make, meaning that can’t put “good will” above the shareholder.   Food donations as a company policy is in the best interest of the shareholder was the argument I made in the memo.

As much sense as these points make to me, I must say I didn’t hold out much hope that they could make an impact on such a large company, if for no other reason the number of minds that must be in accord to change any policy, however, seeing the response from Tim Hortons has opened my eyes to this little thing we have all been doing the past year together has the potential be the driving force toward sweeping change over time in ways that far exceed what we started out doing.  I hope that you will be able to imagine with me what would happen if these 2 franchises alone actually developed corporate policies that to give away unused food, and also to be able to visualize the critical role each person played to even make it in the realm of possibility.  

Seeing Food Rescue expand into other states, and seeing compelled people develop their chapters, in some cases like Jacksonville perhaps to a statewide level, is an incredible thing to see, but the net effect of all of it acting in concert together is the imagination of a good God on display for all to see.

Possible Legislation Change in Indiana

Hello Everyone,

I received this email from the legislative assistant and staff director of Brian Bosma, a state legislator in Indiana.  While the Good Samaritan Laws are favorable related to food donations at the federal level, states like Florida have added stricter language to protect people trying to help at the state level, and my hope was that we could follow suit here in Indiana.  Here was the response.  I am hoping this can open a dialouge on the legal issues related to accidents that occur when a volunteer is serving on behalf of a not for profit organizaiton.

Mr. Williamson, Thank you for contacting Rep. Bosma. He requested that I follow up with you regarding your concerns. I apologize for the amount of time it has taken to respond to you. Rep. Bosma requested that our legal counsel research the issue of food donation and the current federal law. Her determination was while the Federal law on food donation, the Bill Emerson Food Donation Act, is probably written strong enough in your favor to provide protection to encourage these donations, it appears some states and organizations are still not comfortable with the wording. The federal law states that a person is not subject to civil or criminal liability arising from the condition of an apparently wholesome food or apparently fit grocery product. Also, Indiana law provides for immunity from civil liability. However, Rep. Bosma looked at the Florida law and is going to see if he can find a way to amend that language into Indiana Code. We will keep you posted to let you know if he makes progress on this issue this session. If he is unable to get this language passed this year, he will make it a priority for the next session.

A Rod and Charles

You know there have been a couple of famous athletes in the news the past month who provide an interesting contrast to one another.  Alex Rodriguez for taking steroids to improve his stats in MLB, and Charles Barkley for engaging in drunk driving, a potentially deadly activity with deadly consequences beyond his own welfare.

Seeing it in writing, it’s so easy to see which offense is more serious, yet the person who has received the most outrage is the person who tried to improve his stats?  Why?  I think it has everything to do with the fact that we thirst as a society for authentic human beings.  We will forgive almost anything other than insincerity, because insincerity abounds.  For better or for worse, even a non sports fan such as my wife looks at Charles and makes an analysis that he is telling the truth, and although he is surrounded by many whose actions are “less offensive” than his, his authentic nature garners him the benefit of the doubt in almost every situation, while others are guilty before proven innocent.

The A rod/Charles example that has played out before our eyes underscores the importance to us as followers of God that our acitons allign with our beliefs, and that we become an authentic people that demonstrates what we believe.   Even if people disagree with us, they can hear our hearts as long as we are authentic.  “The truth” delivered by someone perceived to be a phony just does not fly in our culture.  It’s like an odor that can be smelled from a great distance.

Millions around the country, many of them followers of Christ, have opined on talk radio and television that Alex Rodriguez is really “A Fraud”, rather than A Rod.  When it comes to issue of justice and mercy, we need to make sure we are equally hard on ourselves if the things we say we believe are true do not match our actions.  While it’s more popular to examine A Rods consistency in his story, an equal examination of our own would be more productive.

The 12 Year Old Who Gave $10

I received the following letter today:

Dear Mr. Williamson,

Enclosed in this letter is a $10 contribution to Food Rescue. I am doing a project at church where each kid in my small group was given $10 to direct to someone in need.  I read about Food Rescue in the paper and from Ellen, and I admire your desire to help others.  I’m glad food is not going to waste, and that people all over are getting helped, both at thte same time.

I’ve been praying that God would show me who to give this to, and I feel led to give it to Food Rescue.  I pray that the business will do well, and that people will see Jesus through Food Rescue.

In Christ,

Elle

If you scroll down you a few blog posts before this one you will see a similar story about a 9 year old girl who gave a dollar.  The heart of children is inspiring to me, and I am sure all of you feel the same way.  We teach them so much, yet we have so much to learn from them.  I am thankful for all of the children involved in Food Rescue.
God bless,

A few new and one old

Hello Food Rescue Family,

As for “the new” I just wanted to take  a moment and welcome our newest chapter president, Anita Rodriguez in Sacramento California.  She is working with Stephanie Morrison of Hopeful Inc in Sacramento, and we look forward to many great stories from Sacramento.  We are also potentially adding 4 days in Rochester NY with our CP in Rochester, Lisa Wheeler. 

As for “the old”, or VP Bryndon Preston found a link of the story I blogged about regarding “ripples” by Tim Sanders regarding the  Timberland shoe company.  It’s about 8 minutes long, but it’s an example of what one tiny act can do.  I hope all of you can relate to it, and recognize that you are part of an unfolding “ripple” described in this story.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JW0MjKLB3k

Inadequate Words

As Food Rescue has grown, my time to write has decreased and my words to describe the events of the past year never seem to express adequately how truly honored I am to represent this amazing group of people who have sacrificed their time to lend a hand to those in need.  Hopefully passing along some of the meaningful events that I encounter as a result of your service will encourage you today that your sacrifices are making a difference in the lives of people in our communities.

I received 2 phone calls today.  One was from a woman who discovered that Food Rescue provided the food she and her family have been eating through an article in the newspaper.   She took the time to pick up the phone to call me and thank Food Rescue.   Her family has been the victim of identity theft, a job loss, and a daughter diagnosed with a medical condition in recent months, and has led to financial setbacks, yet in the midst of that, she expressed a thankful heart to me today for what God had provided through Food Rescue.   With her expression of thanks,  I dare say her wise example to us is of far greater value than the food she and her family received from our efforts.

Oh Lord, teach us the wisdom of this woman, who in the midst of her losses, has learned to be thankful for what You provide.  Allow us to find our contentment in You.

The other phone call I received was from the Indiana Pacers organization, who would like to honor Food Rescue this Friday on the floor at halftime of their game for our work in the community.   When I step onto the floor Friday, I want everyone to know I will be thinking about each one of you,  as my true desire would be for the entire army to march onto the floor together as an example of what a large group of compelled people can do with the smallest of efforts. 

John Williamson

Thousands of Stores

It's not trash thanks to you!

Hey All,

A corporate manager from a franchise with thousands of stores called me a month ago from the K Love interview done by our Chapter President in Jacksonville Florida, and called me again today noting his corporate presentation to adopt Food Rescue policies in their company from top to bottom.   I was able to respond to the entire corporate group via email.  Please pray for a breakthrough that would benefit so many. 

To all of the pioneers from 2008, can you believe it?  One Food Rescue at a time, once per month, one volunteer at a time, it has come to this:  Having the opportunity to influence large chains at the corporate level.  How did that happen?

John Williamson

Food Rescue Founder

The 9 year old girl who gave a dollar

Last night after church, a 9 year old girl named Alecia approached me at church wanting to contribute $1 to Food Rescue.   She had read an article in the newspaper and wanted to help. 

In a thank you note I wrote to her, I mentioned the story of Jesus calling a child into His arms in the book of Matthew, and then explaining to his adult disciples that they needed to become like children to really understand Him.  

Unlike children, we adults look at mountains/problems that seem unsolveable in our lives, and we think about what we “cannot do” rather than what we can do.  Alecia knew she could give a dollar and she felt God wanted her to do it, so she did.  It was just that simple.  No worries about the significance or insignificance,  just obediennce.

I promised her that I would share the story of the 9 year old girl who gave a dollar to help people in need, and that many adults would be blessed by it and learn from it.  Thank you Jesus for pointing us toward children to see your heart.

Merry Christmas Food Rescue Family

Hello Everyone,

Merry Christmas.  The gift of your time, talents, and treasures has been a blessing to so many this year.

I’m usually pretty quick to put out information when our cause has received some attention, but I feel a little funny about this one.  When I was being interviewed for this article, I was not told that I had been selected for any type of recognition.  I thought the line of questioning was a bit more personal than normal, but I didn’t think too much about it.  Since in reality Food Rescue represents everyone who has made sacrifices, I just want to go on record that I accept this recognition with great humility, and on behalf of my Food Rescue family.  My true desire is that any attention anybody receives on behalf of Food Rescue will result in more awareness of everything related to hunger, food waste, service, and those in need in our communities.

http://foodrescue.net/uploads/files/hc_citizen_of_year.pdf

John Williamson

Cathy Wycliff Chicago CP Interview

Columbia College-Chicago Journalism Student Interview

Could you give a brief explanation of what your program offers (in your own words)?

 

Food Rescue offers a volunteer network where needy organizations are matched with bakeries and cafes who would otherwise dispose of their fresh baked goods daily. It’s a system that really works! Homeless shelters, churches, and food pantries receive high quality food; bakeries and restaurants which are involved no longer have to destroy good food; and the program does not cost anyone a single dollar.

What makes your program different than others?

 

Food Rescue is staffed solely with volunteers. There is only one paid administrative staff, Volunteers are asked to give just one hour of their time, one day per month. Certainly, they can do more, but we have been successful by asking the minimum. Many of us have stepped up to become more involved as “Chapter Presidents,” which simply means we take a more active role in making sure food is rescued on a timely basis.

What specifically can volunteers do during the holiday season at Food Rescue?

 

Volunteers can sign up over the holidays to do as little as one food pickup and delivery. We supply directions and procedures for making the food rescue happen. It’s really that easy! Anyone who wants to do more than that, say two or three pickups, they will be welcome—but there is no pressure!

Why is your program important for people to know about and utilize

 

I would like people to know that firstly, there is an organization which began a year ago when a man named John Williamson from Indianapolis decided something more had to be done to feed the hungry.

Secondly, that it is very easy to contact us by going to our website, www.FoodRescue.net, and either filling out a contact form or emailing one of the many “chapter presidents” in your area. Finally, there are terrific bakeries, cafes and restaurants who want their food to be rescued. Panera, as an example, has a “Doughnation” program which makes the teaming up of volunteers and needy organizations possible.

Do you feel that people often misconstrue the meaning of the holidays?

 

Oh, definitely. Holidays are viewed by most people as an occasion to drink and eat in abundant quantity, to party hearty. Many people spend extravagantly on gifts and party fashions. The emphasis of the holiday spirit is misplaced, distorted. But then there are so many Americans who are generous and will not hesitate to give to others.

What are you thoughts on the volunteer program this year in relation to the state of the economy? In other words, are people more apt or less apt to volunteer? Why or why not?

 

Oddly enough, I think that people are more apt to volunteer when economic times are tough, because they are made more aware of those who are needy. I think there are others who will relate more to the less fortunate due to their own families being affected, whether from job loss or from the higher costs of food and gas. But then there are so many Americans who are generous and will not hesitate to give to others, no matter the season.

 

 

Are you finding an increase or decrease in volunteer services? Why?

 

Our organization has grown by leaps and bounds this past year, and although most of that growth is due to the hard work of our volunteers across the country, I do believe that there’s a new “movement” if you will, to give to others in the most basic ways, such as donations of food and clothing.

What will you personally give this holiday season? Does the state of the economy affect  it? 

 

I personally will give the usual modest gifts to my family members and a few friends. Years ago we set a monetary limit when we realized that not all of us could afford expensive gifts. The economy really doesn’t affect it because our level of gift-giving is not extravagant to begin with. We rather enjoy the family gatherings, worship and getting together with friends.

What can people learn through this organization?

 

People can learn that it is easy to give with your heart instead of your wallet. And that the feeling which comes from the experience of feeding the needy is priceless.

Do you have any stats the public should be aware of? 

 

Over 2.8 million dollars in estimated retail value of annual pickups and deliveries scheduled, and over 500,000 pounds of food that was previously being thrown away has been rescued since the birth of Food Rescue in November of 2007.

 

Food Rescue has been assigned over 791 “food rescues” per month around the country.

 

35 Chapter Presidents

 

16 States

 

Over 1200 volunteersn

 

 

Our Motto:

“SERVE ONCE A MONTH FOR 90 MINUTES TO FEED THE HUNGRY”

 

 

On Average each month:

• Food Rescue adds another $230,000 of retail food rescued each month.

• Food Rescue adds 100 volunteers each month.

• Food Rescue adds 3 new chapter presidents each month.

• Food Rescue adds 66 new “food rescues” each month

What extra information should people know that you’d like to share?

 

You don’t need to rent a tux or buy a formal gown for this charity event during the holidays!

Fox 59 Table for 5 Indy Food Rescue Interview

http://www.fox59.com/pages/morning_news

Scroll “Next” for the video that says “Table for Five”.

Another Food Rescue Story

JOhn:  I heard about this from my friend Betsy Block- we haven’t seen each other in 5 years and went for lunch last week.  It is a very intersting story about what happened that day because it is all God at work.  I was listening to a song that essentially says- how many times are you going to walk by someone in need an do nothing.  God has consistenly been laying on my heart the need to serve.  I have been preoccupied with work etc.  Right after I heard that song I went past a restaurant and thought- I certainly would have the time to pick up food from restaurants and bring it to a shelter or pantry.  I didn’t think much else about it – went to work and forgot about it.  Then I went to lunch with Betsy and she was telling me about the Big Give.  I told her how I wanted to serve but didn’t have that kind of time.  She said- My friend John started this ministry that only takes one night a month.  I asked her what it was and she said it was picking up food from restaurants and brining it to pantries.  I got goosebumps…I then told Betsy about what happened to me that morning in the way to work and she got them too!  I started to say how surprising that was- however I know that God had a plan for that day- and He really got my attention.  So, I have emailed the person who has the Greenwood chapter- which is where I live- but wanted to contact you as well.  Please let me know what I can do to help.  In church tonight our Pastor mentioned how the number of people coming to our food pantry is growing- again part of the theme!

Patty Fulton