What were you doing before coming to Second Harvest?
Prior to coming to Second Harvest I worked for a health care network as a medical equipment technician. While I worked there, I helped patients by bringing their equipment to them and educating them how to operate and maintain their medical equipment. When a piece of equipment would not function properly it was also part of my job to try and fix it.
What does your job entail?
As Food Sourcing Coordinator my job entails interaction with local retailers. I help coordinate our food rescue efforts in partnership with our local retail donors and our member pantries. Soon after, our awesome volunteers go and rescue food that is being donated by retailers rather than having it go to waste.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is waking up every morning and knowing that the harder I work the more people can potentially benefit from rescued food that our wonderful volunteers and I helped acquire.
What is something you wish people understood about poverty and hunger?
We live in a country where we have a great abundance of food, unfortunately a significant amount of that edible food goes to waste. Food rescue efforts such as the one here at Second Harvest aim to try and save all that food that is perfectly edible and can help feed someone in our community. By rescuing food that could have ended up in the trash, we are increasing the quantity and availability of food in your local area food pantries. Economic hardship should not mean your family and you should go hungry.
What do you like to do when you are not at work?
When I’m not at work I like to go for walks, read, write, listen to music, watch documentaries and fall asleep in my couch!
What is your life motto?
“Where you are in life does not define who you are, your character and persistence in tough times do”
We all have difficult times in our lives, I know I have. Through the hardships and hopelessness, I have come to realize I’ve become a better version of myself.
“One step backwards, two steps forward”
I think we are all allowed to be human and make mistakes yet it’s imperative to remember to always get back up.