According to the United States Department of Agriculture, about 30% to 40% of food in America is wasted each year. Meanwhile, one in seven people struggles with food insecurity. Organizations like UPMC are stepping up to address both issues.
Take the Haffey Family Farm in Industry, Pennsylvania, for example. Owned by the Haffey family for six generations, this farm prioritizes fresh, locally grown food. Liam Haffey, the young farmer, learned the importance of their produce early on. His mother, Kim, emphasizes that their food is healthier and grown with fewer chemicals. She shares, “Our kids are in the fields with us, picking kale and cucumbers. They eat it right there.”
This farm exemplifies a personal touch in food production. “Everything is planted, harvested, and delivered by hand, with love,” Kim adds. This hands-on approach not only promotes better nutrition but also helps reduce transportation emissions.
Sustainability involves more than just local sourcing. “During the winter, we plant cover crops to enrich the soil,” Kim explains. UPMC aligns with local farms to ensure fresh food reaches those in need. Sydney Crum, the program coordinator for UPMC’s Center for Sustainability, notes, “We focus on taking care of communities before they land in hospitals.”
UPMC also collaborates with nonprofits like 412 Food Rescue, which has rescued over 200,000 pounds of food in the last three years. Becca Simmons from 412 Food Rescue highlights that this effort prevents waste from ending up in landfills, where about 10% of emissions are generated by food waste.
These initiatives create a cycle of sustainability: fewer emissions, less waste, and healthier communities. The University of Pittsburgh plays a role in fostering this environment, with clinicians researching sustainable healthcare practices. Lola Conti from the university’s sustainability office says, “By working with local farms, we can improve food security for lower-income families.”
The community partnerships extend to organizations like Phipps Conservatory and Global Links. Kim Haffey sums it up well: “Supporting food security benefits everyone.” This concerted approach shows promise for a healthier and more resilient future for all.
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Food Insecurity, University of Pittsburgh, Environment, UPMC
