A benefit to eliminate hunger & protect the planet

Join Us: May 6, 2026
Abigail Kirsch at The Loading Dock
Stamford, CT

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Celebrate 15 Years of Food Rescue US

At our annual gala on May 6, 2026, Food Rescue US will proudly celebrate its 15th anniversary—marking 15 years of progress toward ending hunger while protecting our planet.

Join us for an unforgettable evening with others who share a passion for rescuing food and strengthening communities. Guests will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded supporters, preview auction items, and bid on exceptional offerings during a seated dinner. Every moment of the evening will directly support the Food Rescue US mission and the people we serve.

This year’s gala will be a marquee event, introducing fresh elements and renewed energy to a beloved tradition. Across 51 locations in 25 states and Washington, DC, Food Rescue US continues to advance a scalable, community-driven model—and your support is essential to expanding our impact nationwide.

Whether you are new to Food Rescue US or a longtime champion of our mission, we look forward to celebrating with you at the Celebrate Food Rescue US – 15th Anniversary Gala.

*Dress code: cocktail attire

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

Presenting Sponsor

Britton & Laurie Jones

Platinum Plate Sponsor

Jim & Gayle Kirsch

Gold Plate Sponsor

Northern Trust

Silver Plate Sponsors

John & Elly McKenna
Clare & Buddy Kretzman
John & Laura Popa

Media Sponsor

Fairfield County LOOK

...and more announcements coming soon!

Musical performance

Abena Koomson-Davis is a performer, educator and wordsmith. Abena originated the role of Fela’s mother in the Off Broadway musical FELA! and reprised her role in the Broadway production which earned Tony Awards for choreography, sound and costume design. She has performed alongside Stevie Wonder, Carly Simon, Angelique Kidjo and many other luminaries.

Jordan Hyde is a professional guitarist and teacher based in Brooklyn, NY. He has decades of experience playing in venues across NYC, as well as national and international tours. As a versatile sideman, he specializes in many different styles, including jazz, funk, rock, blues, country, and folk. He received a BFA in Jazz Performance from The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in NYC.

Visionary Award

Ellen Bowen is the South Florida Site Director for non-profit Food Rescue US. Using the Food Rescue US app in Florida, volunteer food rescuers pick up nutritious food from local grocers like Trader Joe's, restaurants, hotels, bakeries, and large venues like Hard Rock Stadium. They deliver to shelters, food pantries, and other hunger relief organizations. Ellen and her team have completed large-scale rescues during Super Bowl LIV, Formula 1, FIFA, Miami Marathon, LIV Golf Tournament, and other events.

Personal Look at Food Rescue

Enjoy a personal look at how communities come together to eliminate hunger by rescuing excess food, hosted by Lead Site Director of Fairfield County, Karen Saggese. Explore a food rescue involving a large grocery store, a volunteer rescuer, and the receiving nonprofit organization, or how the Food Rescue US platform connects surplus food with those who need it most.
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