Local businesses have teamed up to fight hunger. The Food Rescue Partnership is a network of organizations and restaurants that donates leftover food to needy families and individuals.
The program started in 2013 when the Scott County Health Department studied hunger and food waste. At the time, business leaders realized they could give away extra food rather than throwing it out.
Board Chairman Pete Vogel says now, more than 12 groups participate in the Food Rescue Partnership, and it's growing.
One of the goals is to keep food out of landfills, but Vogel says some business owners still think it's illegal to donate leftover food.
The Food Rescue Partnership recently started a Donor Recognition Program to encourage more businesses to participate. It will also help customers identify and support those businesses and restaurants.
Vogel says it's free to join the Food Rescue Partnership. It's online at www.foodrescueQC.org.