Project Green Fork is on a mission to transform the way Memphians think about food waste, sustainability, and community impact. By partnering with local restaurants and businesses, PGF is changing lives one meal at a time.
Food donation initiatives
Since August 2023, PGF has partnered with local businesses to donate over 75,000 pounds of surplus food that would have otherwise gone to waste. These contributions are tracked and facilitated through CareIt, an innovative food-sharing platform that connects surplus food with local charities.
PGF coordinates pickups, ensuring that surplus food from restaurants and businesses reaches those who need it most. This initiative combats food insecurity in Memphis and strengthens the community by cutting waste and feeding those in need.
The 901 Save the Food Challenge
Another one of PGF’s primary initiatives is the 901 Save the Food Challenge. This program was designed to combat food waste and promote eco-friendly practices within the Memphis restaurant scene. The challenge empowers local establishments to rethink how they manage surplus food, fostering a ripple effect of green practices throughout the community.
The PGF team starts with a pre-challenge audit, providing each participating restaurant with a snapshot of the waste they generate daily. This assessment serves as a baseline, revealing the hidden costs and environmental impact of food waste. Equipped with this data, restaurants then receive tailored tools and resources to improve their waste management strategies.
The program emphasizes actionable steps like better inventory management, mindful portion sizes, and effective waste separation. By providing ongoing support, educational workshops, and hands-on guidance, PGF helps restaurants not only reduce waste but also engage their patrons in sustainability efforts. To date, the 901 Save the Food Challenge has engaged more than 32 restaurants, proving that even small changes can lead to big impacts.
Chef Kevin Sullivan from Kitchen Laurel participated in the 901 Save the Food Challenge and is now a PGF-certified establishment. He shared his experience:
“[Project Green Fork’s] certification process keeps you informed and keeps you on top of things. It makes me see reality more often – instead of just my perception of what I’m doing.” — Chef Kevin Sullivan, Kitchen Laurel
Chef Sullivan’s words reflect the transformative impact PGF can have on local businesses, encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly practices that benefit both the environment and their operations.
Fueling change with mini-grants
As we approach Giving Tuesday, PGF is thrilled to announce our continued support of local food rescue organizations dedicated to helping those in need. This year, we’re launching mini-grants to empower these organizations in their mission to reduce waste and provide nutritious meals to the community. These will provide funding for initiatives such as improving food collection processes, enhancing storage capabilities, and expanding their reach to serve more individuals facing food insecurity.
By supporting PGF on Giving Tuesday, you’re investing in a more sustainable and compassionate Memphis. Your contribution will strengthen our community by facilitating the vital work of food rescue partners who turn surplus into sustenance.Together, we can create a greener Memphis where food waste is minimized, and every meal counts. Donate today to make a lasting impact in your community.
