Impact

Root & Grow - Food Sustainability

Problem


Enough local growers and producers exist on the Front Range to feed our communities but the disconnect between supply and demand has led to food insecurity for Denver residents and to food waste for farms and producers.


 


Solution


This project aims will contribute to directly reducing food waste and diverting it to individuals and families who are experiencing food insecurity in Denver communities.


 


Goals & Targets


The project has chosen to initially partner with a gleaning organization, expanding on the amazing work they already do. Over the duration of four to six months, the Global Shapers Denver Hub will work alongside UpRoot to directly increase their impact on the Denver area and surrounding communities by providing both resource and strategy support. The project will achieve this through:




  • Support farm outreach: Directly increase the amount of protected foods diverted to those in Denver and surrounding communities by adding 2 farms onto the UpRoot program and increasing total amount of food donated by 5,000 pounds.


  • Volunteer engagement: Increase volunteer base for UpRoot by at least 20 volunteers and engage with existing volunteers for insights into the volunteer program.


  • Community education & outreach; Increase the amount of community members aware of gleaning and food rescue and facilitate connections between leaders in the space by holding at least 2 community events.


Impact


To promote and actively support sustainable food systems and increased food insecurity in Denver communities.