USU's SNAC Earns National Recognition for Food Recovery Efforts

LOGAN, Utah — Utah State University's Student Nutrition Access Center (SNAC) and Center for Community Engagements Harvest Rescue team have been recognized as the No. 3-ranked student chapter in the nation by the nonprofit Food Recovery Network, the largest student-led movement dedicated to recovering surplus food and ending hunger in the United States.

SNAC and Harvest Rescue have diverted more than 318,000 pounds of good food from entering landfills. Those efforts have provided the equivalent of more than 264,000 meals to students experiencing food insecurity while also reducing food waste across campus and Logan.

According to Giselle Bandley, the Center for Community Engagement Student Leadership & Development Coordinator who oversees the Harvest Rescue team, many local gardens and fruit trees have more produce than can be picked.

“USU Harvest Rescue picks surplus produce with volunteers and donates it to local organizations, including SNAC,” Bandley said.

SNAC’s food donations also come through several on-campus dining locations and local bakeries and restaurants.

“The biggest factor in our program's success is being part of a supportive community, both on and off campus,” said Program Coordinator Jonathon Walters. “We couldn’t do it without the support of dining services, local businesses, and our volunteers.”

USU's ranking among Food Recovery Network's top student chapters highlights commitment to addressing hunger and promoting sustainability. As food insecurity continues to impact college students nationwide, SNAC and Harvest Rescue remain committed to ensuring Aggies have access to nutritious food so they can focus on their education and achieve their goals.