During the spring semester of 2016, I was searching for volunteer opportunities related to my favourite topic, the environment. As a student enrolled in SFU’s Environmental Resource Management major, I am always finding ways to lower humans impact on our surrounding ecosystems. The Food Rescue Program sounded like a great place to start.

Before I knew it I was standing in the busy hallway of Blusson Hall, handing out rescued food from our partnered store, Nesters Market. People surrounded the table of overflowing produce as I explained the reasoning behind the free food. I was shocked to hear that many people were unaware that food waste is such a huge issue in our society. I insisted by the tiniest action of taking an apple from our table helps towards building a sustainable community. This program stems far beyond SFU campus as it brings awareness to passing students to lower their wastage by any means. Being a part of this message has been an amazing and rewarding experience.

Eventually, the twice a month event turned into weekly one, and along with that came repeat ‘customers’ eager to see what sort of produce was available. The Food Rescue Program has been met with huge success that now, most of the produce we receive from Nesters can be gone within 30 minutes!

It has been so exciting to see and to be a part of, the growth in Embark. Along the way, I have worked beside so many outstanding volunteers and have met countless friendly people.