In this CHOC grand rounds video, Dr. Eric Handler, Orange County public health officer, highlights a unique public-private partnership focused on eliminating hunger and reducing food waste.
The Waste Not OC Coalition uses a three-pronged approach: educate the community about food donations; identify “food insecure” individuals; and connect those individuals to sources of food. The coalition facilitates the donation of wholesome surplus food from various facilities, including restaurants and hospitals, to local pantries that serve individuals in need.
Since the coalition was formed in 2012, it has increased the visibility of food pantries, raised awareness among business owners of the need for food donations, and empowered clinicians to refer patients to food sources.
