WASHINGTON, D.C.—Food Recovery Network (FRN) announces an exciting milestone as it approaches the recovery of 100,000 pounds of surplus food in partnership with Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. In just over two years, the collaboration has grown to support 10 hunger-fighting partners in the greater D.C. area, providing nearly 85,000 meals.
“Our partnership with Gaylord National has proven to be transformative for our community. Each pound of food recovered not only alleviates hunger but also demonstrates the power of collective action,” said Regina Harmon, Executive Director of FRN. “As we near the 100,000-pound mark, we invite everyone to engage with us, celebrate with us, in this mission to combat food waste, connect people in our community who need it with high-quality food, and make a positive impact on our climate.”
FRN and Gaylord National began their official partnership in June 2023. Since then, FRN’s team has picked up surplus food from Gaylord National every other week. On average, over two weeks, Gaylord’s culinary team saves about 1,200 pounds of perfectly good food, simply prepared in excess, from all of the meetings and events held in their conference and resort center.
“With rising food costs and growing need, the support from Food Recovery Network couldn’t be more impactful. The hundreds of trays of prepared, high-quality meals they provide each week through Gaylord allow us to serve nearly all of our breakfasts and many of our lunches for neighbors experiencing homelessness. Their dedication to reducing waste and nourishing our community strengthens our work every day, and we’re deeply grateful for their partnership,” says Chef Richard Snyder, Central Union Mission Kitchen Manager.
Gaylor National is committed to the longevity of the partnership and its sustainability efforts. Says Hotel Manager, Ryan Verhulst, “Food recovery is essential to reaching our sustainability goals. As part of the Marriott family, we have an emphasis on nurturing our world and reducing our environmental footprint. This includes decreasing our food waste and increasing our contribution to our community. Partnerships like the one we have with the Food Recovery Network help us reach our goals while also giving back to local families in need.”
For more information on how to engage with Food Recovery Network, visit foodrecoverynetwork.org.
