In the wake of the NFL Draft, a significant amount of surplus food was redirected from waste bins to local communities thanks to the efforts of Rooted In Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Green Bay. The group successfully salvaged over 6,600 pounds of food, which is more than the weight of an average smaller female Asian elephant, according to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. This remarkable initiative involved collaboration with the NFL and various hospitality vendors, ensuring that high-quality, nutritious meals reached those in need rather than being discarded.
Selena Darrow, the founder and executive director of Rooted In Inc., shared her personal motivation behind this mission. Having experienced poverty firsthand as a single mother for two decades, Darrow emphasized the importance of providing wholesome food to the community. The recovered items included fresh fruits, vegetables, sandwiches, rice, and protein-rich dishes, all distributed among 13 local shelters and nonprofit programs around Green Bay.
Beyond just distributing food, Rooted In Inc. aims to educate the public on reducing food waste. Darrow announced plans to conduct cooking classes, teaching individuals how to shop efficiently and organize their pantries effectively to minimize waste. These workshops will empower participants with practical skills to make better use of their resources.
The organization continues its work by processing the remaining food from the event. Darrow hopes that the partnership with the NFL has increased visibility for their cause, promoting both hunger relief and sustainable practices within the community.
Through these combined efforts, Rooted In Inc. not only addresses immediate food needs but also fosters long-term solutions for minimizing waste and supporting vulnerable populations in Green Bay. Their impactful approach highlights the potential for collaboration between large-scale events and grassroots organizations to create meaningful change.