Turning Excess into Access: My Work with Peninsula Food Runners
Every day, I see an unfortunate contrast—fresh, edible food being thrown away while families in our own community go hungry. That’s why I’m proud to be part of Peninsula Food Runners, a nonprofit organization with a mission that truly matters: reducing food waste and fighting hunger by rescuing surplus fresh food and delivering it to those who need it most.
We partner with restaurants, supermarkets, caterers, and farmers markets across the Peninsula to make sure perfectly good food doesn't go to waste. Instead, it ends up on the plates of individuals and families facing food insecurity.
Making a Real Impact, One Meal at a Time
Thanks to our incredible volunteers, we’ve made a meaningful difference. In 2024 alone, we rescued the equivalent of 3.7 million meals—yes, million—and delivered them to over 13,000 people each week. Those numbers are more than just data points to me—they’re proof that we’re helping real people, every single day.
The Work Isn’t Over
Despite our progress, we still have a long way to go. Like many organizations, we’re still climbing back to our pre-pandemic levels of service. The need is still great, and that gap between food waste and hunger is one we can’t afford to ignore.
But I’m hopeful—because every volunteer, donor, and supporter makes a difference. With your help, we can continue bridging that gap and bring even more nutritious meals to our neighbors in need.
As the Consulting Marketing Director for Peninsula Food Runners, I’m doing everything I can to amplify our mission and maximize our impact. That means using every tool at our disposal—from a brand-new website launching in Q2 of 2025 to strategic social media, thoughtful public relations efforts, and a volunteer appreciation event to honor the people who keep us going.
It’s all about building community, strengthening engagement, and driving real results.
Join Us
Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or just spread the word, there’s a place for you in this movement. Together, we can turn excess into access—and help ensure that no good food or good intention ever goes to waste.
Laura Medanich with a generous donor at the San Mateo Farmers Market collecting contributions.