New “Share Table” Initiative Launches in Miami Schools

In an exciting partnership with the Miami-Dade public school system, Food Rescue US – South Florida is bringing a simple yet impactful initiative to four elementary schools. The Share Table initiative is our latest effort to tackle food waste and hunger, focusing on where it matters most: our schools. The main objective is to educate students about food waste, food insecurity, and the impact of food waste on the environment.

What is a Share Table?

The concept is simple. The share tables are placed within the school cafeterias, where students can place unopened, non-perishable food items they don’t plan to eat. This could be anything from snacks and cereal boxes to whole fruits. It’s a win-win: students who need a little extra can take what they need, ensuring that no child goes hungry and that good food doesn’t go to waste. At the end of each week, Food Rescue US – South Florida volunteers collect any remaining food from the Share Tables and deliver it to local social service agencies, extending the circle of sharing and support to the wider community.

Lessons in Compassion and Sustainability

The Share Table is more than a place to share food; it’s a lesson in compassion and sustainability. Through flyers sent home and a student-created YouTube explainer video, Food Rescue US – South Florida is engaging the community in a dialogue about the impact of food waste on the climate and the importance of helping those in need. The enthusiasm from students has been inspiring, showing that even the youngest among us can lead the way in making a difference.

Site Director Ellen Bowen expects to collect around 30 pounds of food from each school twice a week, totaling 250 pounds of high-quality food saved from landfills every week. As the initiative grows, she expects to see these numbers increase, demonstrating the real impact of simple acts of sharing and conservation to the participating students.

We invite you to join in this journey. Whether you’re a parent, student, or community member, your support can help expand this initiative and create a more sustainable, caring community. For more information on how you can get involved, visit the Food Rescue US – South Florida website or follow them on Instagram @foodrescueus.soflo.