Veggie Rescue: Transforming Surplus Food into Nutritional Lifelines for the Santa Barbara Community

Santa Barbara County has a significant challenge with food insecurity. Nearly 100,000 residents struggle to secure enough healthy meals, despite the county’s reputation for wealth and agricultural resources. Veggie Rescue, a nonprofit based in Santa Barbara, is working hard to make a difference.

This organization focuses on reducing food waste while helping those in need. By partnering with local farms, grocery stores, and businesses, Veggie Rescue collects surplus food that would otherwise go to waste and redistributes it to nonprofits that assist food-insecure individuals.

Just last week, Veggie Rescue delivered over 1,700 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to Friendship Manor, a senior living community in Isla Vista. This community provides affordable housing for older adults who often face food insecurity.

In 2024, Veggie Rescue rescued and distributed more than 630,000 pounds of food. This effort helped provide healthy meals to various nonprofits and shelters throughout the county.

Judy Taggart from Veggie Rescue said, “Our mission is simple: we connect excess food with people facing hunger. With many struggling to afford nutritious meals, we ensure leftover food gets to those who need it, not wasted in landfills.”

The community also needs to take action. Veggie Rescue encourages local businesses, farms, and residents to support its mission. Donations of food, financial contributions, or volunteering are all ways to help.

This effort not only helps individuals cope with hunger but also tackles environmental issues. Food waste in landfills contributes to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. By rescuing food, Veggie Rescue plays a role in protecting the environment too.

For those wanting to learn more or get involved, visit Veggie Rescue’s website or reach out via email at eryn@veggierescue.