Each year, the United States wastes approximately 133 billion pounds of food, which equates to 40% of all the food produced in the country. While this issue often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves, there are organizations like Vindeket Foods – Food Rescue who are stepping up to address the problem. Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, Vindeket Foods is a non-profit organization that partners with grocery stores, farms, and restaurants to help reduce food waste. Vindeket’s mission is to empower individuals to take ownership in the food cycle and restore both our planet and the communities we live in.
The Beginning of Vindeket Foods
Nathan Shaw, the founder and Executive Director of Vindeket, is a passionate advocate for reducing food waste. His journey began 12 years ago when he started dumpster diving and discovered the large amounts of good food being thrown away. After this realization, Nathan took action and began collaborating with local food producers and distributors, eventually launching Vindeket Foods out of his garage. Today, Vindeket is a fully operational market where the community can volunteer and access a wide variety of free, good food.
Vindeket Foods’ Current Project: Root Bound Campaign
In 2023, Vindeket Foods rescued 1,820,832 lbs of food, equating to 119,000 individual acts of food rescue. This organization has grown exponentially and they are looking to expand their store into a bigger space. In order to attain this goal, Vindeket Foods launched the Root Bound Campaign, hoping to secure a new home three times the size of their current market location. The Root Bound Campaign aims to increase food storage, create a larger community space and kitchen, and provide better access to food.
How You Can Help the Cause
With the community’s support, Vindeket has the chance to find a new home and grow their food rescue. Houska Automotive, a long-time supporter of local non-profits in the area, believes in Vindeket’s cause and encourages the community to do the same.
To show their support, Houska Automotive is hosting their annual Houska Garage band event to help benefit Vindeket Foods. Located at Houska Automotive Heavy Duty, 1005 Riverside Avenue in Fort Collins, the free event will be held on Saturday, September 28th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The community is invited and encouraged to make either a monetary or food donation to Vindeket Foods. Come learn about Vindeket Foods’ mission, enjoy live music from local bands, and share a memorable experience with the Fort Collins community.