Luther’s ‘Cafeteria to Community’ hits milestone

More than 80,000 pounds (average of five tons per year) of food has been donated to local organizations to address hunger since the program’s inception in 2014. 

The Luther College Cafeteria to Community program hit a major milestone – more than 80,000 pounds (average of five tons per year) of food has been donated to local organizations to address hunger since the program’s inception in 2014. 
“The Caf to Community program is a great opportunity to simultaneously reduce Luther’s food waste and help feed our community,” said Meg Sessions, student program coordinator. “The meals we send are recently-prepared, healthy and balanced.”
Twice a week, students, volunteers and Luther Dining Services staff work together to package and label food that is provided to four northeast Iowa facilities: Open Hands Food Pantry, Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation, Decorah Food Pantry and Midwest Mission Bible Training Center. Each facility ensures that individuals and families receive the nutritious meals at little to no cost. 
John Talley, director at the Midwest Mission Bible Training Center in Cresco, said that they rely on this food week after week. 
The Cafeteria to Community program also keeps food waste out of the landfill. Another way Luther avoids adding to the landfill load is through its composting efforts. Chris Frantsvog, sustainability coordinator at Luther said, “All food prep scraps and dining waste are composted and compost collection sites are available in every residence hall and academic building, which helps keep Luther on track toward its goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.”
The Cafeteria to Community Program is always accepting more volunteers. Those interested can contact Sessions with any questions at sessma02@luther.edu. 

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