Food Rescue: Story

The Food Rescue Story

John Williamson

Food Rescue Founder & Volunteer

jw@foodrescue.net

My name is John Williamson, and my wife Carol and our three children Ellen, Hope, and Abby picked up our first end of the day doughnations to deliver to those in need at a Noblesville IN Panera Bread in November of 2007. Since that day, we have founded our own not for profit foundation called Food Rescue, and we have scheduled over three million dollars in food rescues around the country annually, with over 1000 volunteers serving once a month, and 44 chapter presidents all working to try to put an end to the 27% of our food that goes to waste in America. If you would have any interest experiencing the heart of giving yourself or with your family in any of our 44 markets we currently serve, or if you would like to start your own Food Rescue chapter in your community, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Bryndon Preston

Food Rescue Vice President & Volunteer

bkeithpreston@yahoo.com

My name is Bryndon Preston and and I am the chapter president for Food Rescue in Indianapolis IN. I was blessed to become involved with Food Rescue at its inception. I had been asking God for a way to serve him in practical way. The next thing I know John Williamson is sharing his vision for Food Rescue, and something in me said, "Yes, this is what you have been looking for!" I am amazed that in a little more than an hour I can serve God and partner with Food Rescue and bring hundreds of dollars worth of food to people who are hungry. It really hits home with me that but for the Grace of God, that could be me. My amazing wife has been unceasingly supportive, and we are both very grateful for the opportunity to serve God by being a part of Food Rescue.

Debbie Black

Anderson, South Carolina - Food Rescue Chapter President

rhema4now@hotmail.com

My name is Debbie Black and I am the Chapter President in Anderson, South Carolina . I found out about Food Rescue while searching for a food shelter for our church New Vision Outreach to serve. Our church was looking for some way to reach out to our community and after talking with John Williamson via email and by phone I soon felt led this was the way we could serve. We are excited about the opportunity God has provided to be used by him. I have several volunteers that assist with this outreach-WOW when you go "searching" you never know what blessings God will let you find.

Danielle Brossart

Anderson, Indiana - Food Rescue Chapter President

brossart2@yahoo.com

My name is Danielle Brossart, and I am the chapter president for Food Rescue in Anderson, Indiana. I came to know about Food Rescue through a radio program on WQME in October of 2008 and knew I wanted to be involved in some way. After checking out the web site, I realized that there was no chapter in Anderson and thought that needed to be changed. Our family became Hoosiers in July of 2006, moving from California to be closer to my husband's family. Our family has volunteered with a local food pantry and is active in service through our church. We want to help the community in our area and make an impact for Christ. Bryndon Preseton has already paved the way for interest in the minstry with the people and businesses in the area, so my job is a lot easier than starting from scratch. We do not have any restaurant partners yet, but are going to work hard to get the Anderson chapter up and going. If you'd like to be a part of this wonderful ministry, please contact me at the e-mail address above, God bless.

Kimberly Bryant

Chicago, Illinois - Food Rescue Chapter President

kbryant@nmff.org

My name is Kimberly Bryant, and I am one of the chapter presidents for Food Rescue in Chicago, Illinois. I discovered Food Rescue while searching Craigslist, September, 2008. There was an ad posted, and I was looking for volunteer opportunities, and a way to give back to the hungry in the community. I knew this was what and where God wanted to use me. I work in Human Resources, with Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation. A little more than a year ago, I worked in administration with Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. I just recently returned from a trip to South Africa called; "Women Building Global Communities". With Food Rescue, God has given me the tools to feed and build communities here at home.

I'm married to Nate and mother to 3 amazing young adults. As an active member of St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, I help to deliver food, clothing and meals to the sick and shut in on the Southside of Chicago. It is blessing to be a part of this amazing life change experience!

Patty Bukowski

Indianapolis District Coordinator

Patty@beaconcg.net

My name is Patty Bukowski. The extent of our anticipation affects our participation and ultimately determines our impartation. In other words, Food Rescue is able to impart a portion of provisions to the poor because of the participation of volunteers who anticipate God to do great & mighty things. "I tell you the truth, whatever you did NOT do for one of the least of these, you did NOT do it for me." Quoted from Jesus Christ.

Jack Burgess

Arlington, Texas - Food Rescue Chapter President

foodrescuedfw@hotmail.com

My name is Jack Burgess. Along with my wife Billa, have worked in compassion/benevolence ministries of every church we ever attended. We are now affiliated with The Children's Table Ministries in Grand Prairie, TX. They are one of the ministries eager to glean whatever food we are able to obtain through our affiliation with Food Rescue. People That Care Ministries is now participating with us and feeding several other outreaches with the donations. I have had a heart for the needy since I was a very young boy. Every chance I got, with my mom's help, I took food or clothes to people I heard needed help. Being able to pick up the bread from Panera Bread in Arlington, TX, many, many people have been blessed. I look forward to developing contacts in Grand Prairie and Irving, TX. With Food Rescue, I once again have a chance to help the hungry and people of need in my own town. The task I have now is put ministries and churches together with the food being donated. That is a job I really look forward to.

Jocelyn Challas

Charlotte, North Carolina - Food Rescue Chapter President

jocelynchallas@msn.com

My name is Jocelyn Challas, and I am the chapter president for Food Rescue in the Charlotte, NC area. I learned about Food Rescue from a Craigslist posting by John Williamson seeking volunteers for the program, and I immediately knew it was something I could help with. As a busy stay-at-home mom to three young children, I've often found it challenging to find ways to volunteer in a meaningful way without taking time away from my home and family. But helping with Food Rescue is something my entire family can do together, and it's been a blessing to us all. I am currently coordinating food pick-up from the Panera-Ballantyne in south Charlotte, with delivery to a homeless ministry called HoskinsPark. We need more volunteers to expand our impact, and I would love to hear from you! Please contact me if you would like to help with Food Rescue in the Charlotte area.

Kathi Crothers

Jacksonville, Florida - Food Rescue Chapter President

kcrothers@sleiman.com

My name is Kathi Crothers and I am the Chapter President for Jacksonville, FL. I am a single mom with a beautiful daughter named Jade who is 8 yrs old and I work full time for a Commercial Development Company. We have been so blessed by our church and community to be able to serve in a variety of different missions together. A friend emailed me a Christian internet station and I tuned in for that day. That was the day that K-Love was plugging Food Rescue. I jotted it down on a sticky and held on to it for a week. I emailed John and found out that I was one of many waiting to jump in. August 2008 we had our initial set up call and a week later I have 15 + volunteers ready to drive. We have committed to serve dinners at our local City Rescue Mission for this year, which has allowed me to build a relationship with their coordinators. Upon setting this up, I've allotted them all of our food deliveries until they say 'No more'. Things are just falling into place almost effortlessly and I know that is how GOD works. He makes it so easy to do his work. I am overwhelmed by the immediate response from my friends and church family. They also pray: Bring it on. We are Christians and we will work together for GOD. Praise GOD.

Linda Curd

Lexington, Kentucky - Food Rescue Chapter President

linda.curd@eds.com

Hello my name is Linda Curd and I'm so excited to be involved in starting the Lexington, KY Food Rescue chapter. The idea of food rescue has been a personal passion of mine for quite some time - I just never had a "name" for it. Those friends who know me well can share stories of my car being loaded down with leftovers from special events and whatnot.
I have always loved to volunteer and have a heart for service but I had yet to find that area of ministry where I knew for sure God was calling me. So when I heard about this program on the radio it captured my attention and after reviewing the website and speaking to John - I took that leap of faith and agreed to be the chapter president. And so it begins;Bring it on God!

The Regency Center Panera (2380 Normal Lane) is currently throwing away food on Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights. That's about $72,000 retail value in a year. At this point, I've initiated the pick-ups for Saturday nights and am hoping to begin Friday nights soon.

As of right now the Lexington Chapter currently consists of Me, God, Jesus, & the Holy Spirit. And so I would just ask for your prayers & if you are interested in volunteering in the Lexington, KY area please contact me.

Stephen & Sandy Curran

Hurst, Texas - Food Rescue Chapter President

jcurr5@juno.com

My wife Sandy came across "foodrescue.net on craigslist.org while looking for a job. She was immediately captivated with the great opportunity to be able to serve the needy. She was so exited that she forgot about looking for a job and got in touch with John. She shared this great vision with me. It did not take any convincing for both of us to join.We understand first hand what it feels like to go hungry. We are able to help churches in Hurst and North Richland Hill, Texas to be able to bless folk in their congregation.

We are looking to the Lord to rescue many souls through this ministry. Thank you John for heeding the call.

We come from India. Sandy was a Hindu and I was an atheist. Both of us were saved by Christ in 1984 in India. We moved to the U.S.A. in 1995 and immediately recognized that the Lord has blessed this nation to be a blessing to many nations. We say with our heart, God Bless America.

Kristin Dinkel

Greenville, South Carolina - Food Rescue Chapter President

kdinkel@charter.net

My name is Kristin Dinkel and I am the Chapter President in Greenville , South Carolina . I found out about Food Rescue through a family member in Charlotte , NC and after talking to John Will iamson via email and finding out what a need there was, I knew I wanted to be involved. I thought he was joking when he labeled me "Chapter President", but I feel very comfortable with that "hat" now. We pick up at Panera Bread in Simpsonville and deliver to the Church of God Home for Children. They have 13 children currently living there and are very appreciative to have the bread...especially for sandwiches for the kids! They also share with a home across the street for retired pastors and widows that live on fixed incomes. One of my volunteers went the extra mile and gathered donated school supplies for the kids so I love to see how God is providing for these kids. My husband and I have three children, 14, 12 and 6, and have enjoyed getting them involved and letting them see how God cares for the needy through us. We are God's delivery system and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to serve Him.

Carl Gilmour

San Antonio, Texas - Food Rescue Chapter President

cgilmour@ymail.com

My name is Carl Gilmour and I started out with Food Rescue back in 2008 by responding to an ad put out by Mrs. Barbara Lucero. Since then I have helped to rescue a great deal of food and have also found more places for it go. I helped to begin a Food Bank at my college and I bring a portion of the bread their regularly. There was once a time when I was the one in need of that Food Bank or that Bread when I was younger, and now that I am able I am more than willing to get out there and make that a reality for all of those who are where I had been. I hope that everyone of the members has nothing but the best years ahead of them with this wonderful opportunity. Best regards to all who are beginning their journey with the Food Rescue and all of those who are the tenured veterans who have established its presence enough for us to prosper so.

Sharon Gordon

Lawrenceville, Georgia - Food Rescue Chapter President

sharons.gordon@yahoo.com

Isn't it amazing how awesome our God is? How He keeps on blessing us. Could you think of anyone that can compare to Him and His grace He gives to us? How He is able to open up the door of opportunity to any one who knocks. I am honor to be able to be a part of a rewarding ministry such as the Food rescue. Who would have thought it possible the desire of one man has reached the hearts of many to share in the vision that was given to him. I want to say thank you John for your obedience.

Oh taste and see that the Lord is 'truly' good. I am so excited to take on this awesome responsibility and to make a difference. It has always been a passion of mine to touch the hearts and lives of others in some special way. Through much prayer and in God's timing another chance has been presented and I was given the green light!!!

I am compelled to doing the will of God in my life for I know it is never about me or us but for the Glory of God. It is only that which we do for God that will last. I am proud to say that I will be walking this journey with my husband Eric of 16 years, and my two darling angels, my son Lil' Eric and my daughter Simone. Together we are ready to discover what life changing experience God has for us.

May the favor and the peace of our God continue to be with you daily is my prayer.

Lynette Harris

St. Paul, Minnesota - Food Rescue Chapter President

shiuvan@q.com

Hi my name is Lynette Harris. I am one of chapter presidents in area of St. Paul Minnesota. I started a Food Rescue chapter in St. Paul because I knew I wanted to help my community to make sure people don't go hungry, and like John said, food and shelter should be the most simple things to solve in your community. Amen to that. So with the help of God, my family, and volunteers that are coming on board we can make a dent to stop the madness of all the food being thrown away. God Bless You.

Sandra Hofer

Fort Collins, Colorado - Food Rescue Chapter President

food2share@yahoo.com

Hi, I’m Sandy Hofer and am currently coordinating, picking up the "End of the Day Doughnations", from the Panera Bread on Council Tree Avenue in Fort Collins, and delivering them to the Open Door Mission...a local homeless shelter, which serves 4000+ meals a month.

Am also seeking other agencies/shelters who are able to accept these donations. As John mentioned, this is more difficult than it seems.

When I heard about Food Rescue on KLOVE radio, it spoke to my heart. How could I not respond to this...rescuing perfectly good food and getting it to hungry people in my own community. What a wonderful opportunity to serve.

But I am in need of more volunteers for pickup and delivery and could really use your help. It’s a great opportunity for small groups, organizations or families to give back. Just over an hour, one day a month can make a big difference in someone’s life.

Please contact me if you have any questions or interest in serving with Food Rescue in the Fort Collins/Loveland area.
Thank you for your generous hearts and your willingness to serve.

Cheryl Jackson

Plano, Texas - Food Rescue Chapter President

cjackson@thegivingmovement.org

My name is Cheryl Jackson. I am President of the Giving Movement a non-profit organization that operates Minnie's Food Pantry in Plano, Texas. I am a minister, wife and mother of two young men, Robert and Artis Jr.
I put what I am in order of importance to me. I host a segment on Good Morning Texas and I am a contributor for the Dallas Morning Newspaper. I am humbled to be selected as President of the Food Rescue division in my community.

I started my food pantry because I watched a women give unselfishly to others when I knew she didn't possess much herself. I watched her cry and pray for people that were hurting and I watched them walk away believing that she was extremely wealthy because of her acts of kindness. Looking back, I realize the Minnie Ewing was extremely rich. She had all the things money could not buy and I was determined to honor this lady to the best of my ability. Every month Minnie's Food Pantry proudly feed hundreds and sometimes thousands of people. I honor this living legacy, not because she is my mother but because of her life! I am trying to master the special hugs that she gives and the million dollar smile. I shared this story is because someone watches who you are and what you do all the time. If they decided to be like you, what would they be duplicating?

The first time I spoke to John Williamson, I knew it was a God thing. I was so excited! My personal mission is to end hunger in our community. In Plano, Texas there are 500 homeless children in our schools (staggering statistics) from the city that was recently voted the number one place to rebuild wealth. My mission is to create awareness about the current hunger situation. I have experienced hunger and homelessness and it was a lonely period in my life. When I look into the eyes of a grateful person that received a bag of food, a kind word or a smile from one of our volunteers, I consider myself to have the best job in the world.
The Giving Movement has a saying, Be the flame! We know that one spark can burn down an entire city or the entire world if it's not blown out. I will be the Flame against hunger.

I accept your torch, John Williamson and I will do my best to assist our cause.

Mother Teresa said it best, "If you can't feed one hundred people, feed just one". My goal on a daily basis is to Feed Just One!

Juanita Kelsaw

Downtown Indianapolis - Food Rescue Chapter President

j.v.kelsaw@usa.net

Who would have guessed that an unplanned "act of kindness" by a co-worker would lead to a fulfillment within my own heart? For years I recognized that "giving to the Lord" was much more than a sermon topic covering the well-known 3 "T's" - tithes, talents & time. Tithes & talent; I had them covered. It was the factor of "time" that was something I longed to give in service to others, but couldn't quite find the right fit between passion & purpose.

Then came my introduction to Food Rescue by way of an alert email from that same co-worker; who rescued food and made it available rather than letting it go to waste. That email, explaining the free goodies contained a link and being the curious one, I clicked to investigate. Immediately wheels started churning. 90 minutes a day; 1 day a month; support any organization that helps feed the hungry; involvement included (rather than excluded) families as a way to model the Golden Rule before our children. Wow! Without much delay, I completed the online form, received a response and secured a date for my first pick-up.

My first exchange was electrifying and the wheels continued to churn faster - who else? where else? when else? how else? After sharing excitement and ideas with John, the founder, I was dubbed "chapter president". Who me? Already?!? As a wife, mother, corporate employee, business entrepreneur, ministry leader/participant, I still felt God tugging at my heart to make an extra commitment. With such a small sacrifice returning HUGE rewards, I can only rejoice for having played a minor part.

Jesus said, "...whatever you do unto the least of these, you do it unto me..." In a land of plenty, there's more than enough to feed Jesus by feeding the hungry among us. If interested, please contact us. We are always looking for volunteers who are willing to create a ripple of giving in across this great nation. Everything done for Jesus will last. May your works speak well of you. God bless!

Karen Sue Landrian

Grayslake, Illinois - Food Rescue Chapter President

sk8proksl@aol.com

My name is Karen Sue Landrian and I am the Chapter President for the Lake County area of the Greater Chicagoland. I am married to the love of my life Juan and we have a son who lives in San Diego and a daughter attending Northern Illinois University. I originally heard about Food Rescue through our local K-Love station. For the past 5 years I have been involved with PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter). It is an organization that provides food and shelter to the homeless of Lake County. I have always had a passion for the homeless and just knew that God had led me to hear this story on K-Love looking for people willing to step up and start local chapters since it is a perfect fit for my passion. I was amazed to learn after speaking to John how much food goes to waste - if we can all work together to "rescue" that unwanted food there is no reason why anyone in our great country should ever go hungry! I feel so blessed to be able to a part of such a wonderful organization and am excited to see how many lives can be touched and transformed with just a few hours of time every month!

Barb Lucero

San Antonio, Texas - Food Rescue Chapter President

satxfoodrescuenet@gmail.com

Greetings, my name is Barbara Lucero, from San Antonio, TX. I am a mother of three amazing sons & three sweet hearted daughters-in-love. A proud grandma to three precious grand-babies, life is abundantly over pouring blessings with the joys of grandchildren.

I came to know of foodrescue.net through the Christian radio station K-Love, 91.3 FM. My heart was moved, God lead me to participate in this very much needed vision of John Williamson, President, of this mission. Absolutely, no one person should go hungry anywhere, especially in this great land of the USA. We are one nation under God instructed by our Lord's Holy Word to be our brother's keeper. Brothers and Sisters in Christ I urge you to pray about becoming a VOLUNTEER in this great cause, for those in need can be anyone at anytime, the homeless, an elderly individual, the single mother struggling to feed her children, a father who has been laid off from a job. Not one of us can truly know what tomorrow will bring. Let's all count our Blessings and give back to our Lord by serving His most precious creation, mankind. Please don't hesitate to call. I can be reached at (210) 522-9319 or by email.

God has birth a desire in my heart for many years now to serve in the area of Deaf Ministry, where I have been abundantly blessed. I want to mention these first few volunteers of many to come by Gods calling. Without any hesitation, immediately on board are four deaf friends; Az Hernandez, Jeremy Carter, Scott Wencel, & Jesse Longoria. Heartfelt thanks to these individuals and to all yet to come. It is a heartwarming reward to serve, we step out to give although actually receive.

San Antonio-NW, NE, SW, and SE, along with all Inter Sub Cites, many Volunteers, & area Chapters are needed. Bring it on God!

God's gift to his people is life with the promise of eternal life in heaven, paid for by the ultimate price of His shed blood. Our gift back to God can be how we choose to be obedient to his word in giving back in this gift of life.

Abundant Love, Peace & Joy, Babs

Melissa Lucious

Arlington, Massachusetts - Food Rescue Chapter President

mrlucius@rcn.com

My name is Melissa Lucius, and I live in Arlington, MA with my husband Richard and our two daughters, Amanda and Veronica. I was looking for a way to do some community service with the girls, and ran across Food Rescue in an internet search. I thought it would be a great way for them to serve hands-on, and at the same time, learn the valuable lesson that there are kids out there, just like them, who don't have enough to eat, and that we can help. When you're a young child who has everything she needs, surrounded by others who have everything they need, it's easy to think that the whole world is like this. But around the world, and right around the corner, there are families who go to bed hungry every night. Thanks to Food Rescue and Panera, we can help them. If we all do our part, maybe we can make the world a better place.

Rich Maloney

Ann Arbor, Michigan - Food Rescue Chapter President

rmaloney@umich.edu

My name is Rich Maloney, and I am the chapter president for Food Rescue in Ann Arbor Michigan. I met John many years ago, as we attended the same church in Muncie Indiana. My family subsequently moved to Ann Arbor Michigan related to a job opportunity, and John emailed me a few months ago letting me know how much food was being thrown away near me, and how easily I could play a role in getting it into the hands of people in need. We now pick up a couple of days a week from a local food establishment, and deliver it to organizations in our community that are on the front lines of providing basic needs to people struggling in this challenging time we live in. I feel blessed to be a part of an organization that daily seeks feed children and families around our nation.

Karen Muheim

Elk Grove, California - Food Rescue Chapter President

kmuheim@earthlink.net

My name is Karen Muheim and I am the chapter president for Food Rescue in Elk Grove, California. I am an Accountant, married, and mother of two girls. Since my kids were young, I have been an advocate and volunteer for the Leukemia and Lymphoma society. I believe that it is important to contribute to those in need and want to instill social responsibility and compassion within my kids. When a family member sent me information regarding Food Rescue, I knew immediately that it is an organization in which I want my family to become involved. There is so much need within our community. Food Rescue is a wonderful organization where we are given the opportunity to help those in need. If you are interested in volunteering in the Elk Grove (South Sacramento) area, please contact me.

Shenee Nelson

Minneapolis, Minnesota - Food Rescue Chapter President

sltn00@msn.com

My name is Shenee Nelson and my husband is Justin, we have been married for 7 years and we have 4 wonderful Kids. We live in Crystal, Minnesota and belong to Christ Memorial Lutheran Church. I heard about Food Rescue from a Craig's List ad in 2008. I immediately contacted the person and began volunteering that very next week. I currently pick up food on a weekly basis from the Panera location in my area. We are excited about helping hungry people here in our town.

This is a blessing that I am able to help others in need by just spending a little of my time. What little time leaves a great big impact on others.

God Bless to all the volunteers.

Aaron Overfield

St. Louis, Missouri - Food Rescue Chapter President

foodrescue@high-priestess.com

My name is Aaron Overfield, Food Rescue Chapter President for St. Louis, Missouri. I have been working in the mental health services field for over seven years doing social work and counseling. When I was younger my mother involved me in her volunteer efforts, such as serving dinner in shelters at Christmas, preparing mailers for St. Louis Effort for AIDS and doing repairs on facilities for battered women and recovering alcoholics. It was my mother's compassion and social contentiousness that instilled greater empathy within me which I now utilize in my life and career every day. I'm often looking for ways I can contribute to those in need in meaningful, productive and practical ways.

I'm also father to a son and I've slowly come to realize it's not enough for him to simply know of the kind of work I do, I must also fully involve him in socially-contentious efforts if he's to develop his own sense of self-worth based primarily in how much he contributes to the world and those in need. It was a desire to involve my son, much the way my mother did with me, in volunteer efforts that led me to Food Rescue. Not only is Food Rescue an incredibly ingenious program that will allow us to contribute to a grossly underserved population, it will also provide my son and I with experiences we can share and carry with us for the rest of our lives. As he becomes a man in his own right, this has the potential to allow him an opportunity to organize his own Food Rescue where he can assemble his group of friends and volunteers in order to fully experience and realize the character building experience of social service and organization.

Suzannah Park

Chicago, IL - Chicagoland District Coordinator

chicagolandfoodrescue@gmail.com

My name is Suzannah Park, and I am a Chapter President, as well as the District Coordinator, for Food Rescue in Chicagoland. Having lived in or near major cities all of my life, I have seen the widespread, deep needs of far too many people. Because my life has been blessed in so many ways, I have been led to spend much of my free time serving those needs in my community. Through these experiences, I had learned of the food that was going to waste every day, but was hesitant to tackle the problem on my own. John Williamson's ad on Craigslist rekindled that interest, and other cities' testimonies gave me hope that this can be done! After long and prayerful consideration, the Lord made it clear He also wanted me to serve with Food Rescue, and in more ways than I imagined, as the need for a district coordinator was soon identified. Meeting people's basic life necessities is a pure and simple way in which we are called to share God's love!

Alison Plahitko

Greenwood, Indiana - Food Rescue Chapter President

amplahitko@hotmail.com

My name is Alison Plahitko, and I am the Chapter President in the Southside Indianapolis area. I am an RN, am married to a great guy, and have 3 wonderful children. I felt pulled to email John Williamson after I saw a TV spot on Food Rescue, and how they needed drivers to pick up food at local Panera restaurants. I thought, "Hey, I can do that once in awhile". I became involved and ended up working very hard to get, and keep, our donation from our Greenwood Panera. I'm looking to expand our pick-up locations, and our number of dedicated volunteers here on the Southside of Indianapolis. We currently deliver the food to the Greenwood Community Church, who open their doors three times a week to feed the poor in that area. This literally fell in my lap. It's amazing how, when you think you don't have time for something like this, God "clears" your schedule to make it happen!

Kristie Rath

Plattsburgh, New York - Food Rescue Chapter President

midwifekristie@hotmail.com

"My name is Kristie Rath. I am the Chapter President for Food Rescue in the Plattsburgh, NY area. I had already been rescuing food from a local grocery store in town and wondering how I could do even more. I had been praying about what to do, when to do it and how to do it. Then one day on my way to church I heard about Food Rescue and John Williamson on K-Love. The very next day I contacted him, eager to find out how I could do more. Currently we collect food from one local grocery store and hand it out on Sunday mornings to needy families. With the help of the Food Rescue program we will be contacting all of the other local grocery stores as well as the bakeries and restaurants, and we will see what God has in store. "Bring it on God!" My husband and our two children help with the collecting of the food, sorting it and distributing it. It is awesome to be able to involve the children and have them serve in such a way to be able to bless others. This is a great ministry that people of all ages can help with. If you are interested in helping in the Plattsburgh area please contact me!"

Anita Rodriguez

Sacramento, California - Food Rescue Chapter President

pirate_princess24@yahoo.com

My name is Anita Rodriguez and I am the Chapter President for Sacramento, CA. When I heard about Food Rescue I knew instantly that I needed to be a part of this. I was shocked to hear that there weren't any chapters out here in California and I am honored to start something so wonderful out here. I am a student at Sacramento State University and am a member in a national coed service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega. We are always looking for ways to be of service and I am happy to get my fraternity involved in "rescuing" food. We currently have two Panera locations in Roseville, CA-on Douglas Blvd. and Pleasant Grove Blvd., and deliver our "rescued" food to local non-profit organization called Home Start.

When ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are only in the service of your God.-Mosiah 2:17

Karla Romero

Boston, Massachusetts - Food Rescue Chapter President

uxmagazine@yahoo.com

Boston native Karla Romero, is the founding President and CEO of Mass Appeal International. Ms. Romero is seasoned with years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Ms. Romero represented Boston in the Miss USA Pageant as Miss Boston, she served as a motivational speaker for high-risk urban youth, promoting higher education, civic duty, self-determination, and pride in diversity. Ms. Romero holds her BS in Criminology and Law, Psychology minor from Suffolk University and her Master's of Human Service Administration.

Wilfredo Romero

Dallas, Texas - Food Rescue Chapter President

romerofamilyministries@gmail.com

Pastor Wilfredo Romero has 20 years of ministry under his belt in Dallas Texas with Christ for the Nation Church. He reaches out to a bilingual audience of Spanish and English speaking Christians to spread the good word. He is happily married father of 2 children and has 2 grand children. He learned about Food Rescue through Karla Romero, Food Rescue chapter president in Boston Massachusetts.

Candice Saltsman

Hillsboro, Oregon - Food Rescue Chapter President

mytrendybaby@hotmail.com

I am 30 years old with a love and care to help others. The lord has put it in me since I can remember. I know what it is to go without so when I have I give what I can.I have had some severe health issues in the past and still dealing with taking a ton of meds everyday. However the lord keeps me happy and loved through it all.

I found out about this opportunity through John Williamson (a saint himself) and could not wait to get started. I have not yet had my first pick up and already have a waiting list of individuals hurt by this economic tragedy who will benefit from Food Rescue immensely.

This is truly a blessing and I could not be happier to help. Love and well wishes!

Tresha Souza

San Diego, California - Food Rescue Chapter President

tsouza@san.rr.com

I started out a year ago when my church had an ad in the weekly bulletin regarding a new ministry for the homeless. They were having their very first dinner and were looking for volunteers to help serve dinner to the homeless. I had always had a soft spot for homelessness and had always taught my children to have compassion for the homeless people I would drive by certain areas with my kids since they were little and we would give whatever we had so I thought this was a great opportunity to show my children hands on. Me and my children went to the dinner and realized what a need there was to help these people. The church only had pasta and some people had brought homemade cupcakes for desert. Well, the next day I started calling and calling to different stores and people, asking for donations. After receiving 30 NO responses came my first yes. It was amazing. Now my problems were no longer finding the food it was how to pick it up and where to put it. I received a huge donation a week before Thanksgiving and was given a brand new walk in freezer. My children come and help at every dinner and are a huge part of this movement. I have 3 daughters and 1 son my daughters are 21, 17 16 and my son is 10 my daughters have brought so many children from their high school that would have probably never thought to do something like this and now they keep coming back. All I can say is GOD IS AMAZING. I have formed a 501c3 Not For Profit Organization called So Others May Eat Incorporated, in order to serve people in my community.

Julie Taylor

Stafford/Fredericksburg - Food Rescue Chapter President

jew1ee@comcast.net

My name is Julie Taylor and I am the chapter president for Food Rescue in Stafford/Fredericksburg, Virginia. I discovered Food Rescue while searching Craigslist. John Williamson posted an ad looking for volunteers and after reading the webpage, I knew this was just the opportunity I wanted to commit too. I am currently on active duty in the United States Air Force and stationed at The Pentagon. I have four fantastic children, and my husband John is the love of my life. I deliver to the Hope House, which was established in 1987 to serve homeless women and their children from the City of Fredericksburg, and the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, and King George. By donating just a portion of my time, it can make a difference in a person's life, make the world a better place to live, and have a lasting impact. Please contact me if you would like to get involved in the Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, and King George areas.

Ellen Thomas

Cambridge, Ohio - Food Rescue Chapter President

ellenthomas2@verizon.net

My name is Ellen Thomas, and I responded to the need for Food Rescue in southeastern Ohio in March 2009. I am a Presbyterian minister. I have a half-time pastorate, and for the past 25 years I have been answering God's call to serve the needy, in all kinds of different ways. I have been involved with free neighborhood meals, food recovery and distribution, food pantries, a literacy program teaching people to read, and clothing distribution programs. My family and I live as simply as possible so we can give more to needy persons in our midst. Jesus' words about helping "the least of these my brothers" in the gospel (Matthew 25:40) has grown, over the years, to be central in my faith as a Christian.

I heard about Food Rescue on Twitter, emailed John Williamson, and then called him to discuss the details of starting a Food Rescue operation where I live. He was very encouraging, and I am amazed at how simple the process is - it just takes people who are willing to do it. Right now I am delivering bread products directly to families in need. I hope to get a distribution site set up through my church this year (2009). If you are in the Zanesville/Cambridge area and would like to volunteer, please call me at 740-826-9006, or email me at ellenthomas2@verizon.net.

Stacy Tyler

Kansas City, Missouri - Food Rescue Chapter President

stacymtyler@hotmail.com

My name is Stacy Tyler and I'm the Chapter President for the Kansas City, MO area. I have always had a passion for volunteering and have found the most rewarding experience comes from helping others meet their basic needs; food, clothing, shelter. I discovered Food Rescue when I heard a news story one morning on the radio. I felt so connected to the cause and immediately contacted John when I got to work. It was really quite easy; almost TOO easy; to work through John and find a Panera Bread location close to my home with an open schedule. I am still in awe over how much food would be thrown away if I wasn't there to pick it up. John told me the hard part was to find a food pantry who would take evening deliveries; even that didn't pan out to be a big challenge. I found children's homes who would take the evening donations/drop-off. And what a HUGE benefit to these organizations; they are so grateful that it almost makes me embarrassed because of the simplicity of it all. It only takes me 40 minutes to knock it out! My favorite quote to live by is by Booker T. Washington: "When you want to lift yourself up, lift up others." Boy is that the truth!!! God Bless!

Lisa Wheeler

Rochester, New York - Food Rescue Chapter President

theolisa@gmail.com

My name is Lisa Wheeler and my husband Theo and I have been married for nineteen years and we have 3 boys. We live in Rochester New York and belong to Browncrof Community Church. We heard about food rescue on KLOVE and thought we could help. We are excited about helping hungry people here in our town.

Denise Wiklacz

Simpsonville, South Carolina - Food Rescue Chapter President

wiklacz@bellsouth.net

Hi my name is Denise Wiklacz and I live in Simpsonville, South Carolina. I learned about Food Rescue from a neighborhood newsletter looking for a volunteer to assist with another route. By the time I called, that volunteer slot was filled, but I was put in contact with John Williamson. Before I knew it, I had my own route and team of volunteers! We donate our rescued food from Panera's Bread to Eastminter Presbyterian Church's food panty in Simpsonville, SC. They appreciate and look forward to our drop-off every week. I have gotten my three children, all under the age of 10, involved and I believe that the life lessons learned through this program are innumerable. We love being a part of something that is so easy, yet provides so much help to people in need.

Brenda Williamson

Muncie, Indiana - Food Rescue Chapter President

promark44@att.net

My name is Brenda Williamson. My brother-in-law is the founder of Food & Rescue. He shared his story with the family and asked us to pray for God's blessing on this ministry. I work for a non-profit organization that helps people with disabilities on fixed incomes (Hillcroft Services in Muncie, IN) I began to see the need for food donations for Hillcroft. Hillcroft has a facility called Isanogel it's our summer camp. Our goal was to be able to use the bagels for camp. We started collecting bagels in our big freezer in February. Last week was our first week of camp and we are excited to say we have fresh bagels from Panera! I thought to myself.. I wonder if other businesses would be willing to donate to Hillcroft? So, I made a few phone calls to Blondie's Cookies and Auntie Ann's pretzels and we know pick up from them as well. All it takes is a phone call to ask if someone is willing or able to help give back to the community.

Normal_food_rescue_kim_w_new_pic_revised

Kimberly Winzenried

Toledo, Ohio - Food Rescue Chapter President

kimberly.winzenried@students.lourdes.edu

I heard about Food Rescue on the radio in August 2008, and I immediately got online to find out how to get involved. There was no Food Rescue chapter in my area, so I decided to start one myself. Food is currently picked up on a weekly basis from three different Panera locations in the area. The food is packaged up and delivered to families in need. It takes hours of hard work, but it is all worth it!

Teresa Woodby

Brighton, Michigan - Food Rescue Chapter President

teresa.woodby@yahoo.com

My name is Teresa Woodby and I am a working mother of two and happily married to a wonderful man. I heard about Food Rescue on K-love radio. I contacted John the next day. I live in Swartz Creek, a small community just South of Flint, MI. Just like so many others tied to Food Rescue, I was looking for a way to serve Christ and help people in my community. I was amazed by the amount of food from one pick-up provided. It is such an easy way to make a big impact.

Cathy Wycliff

Chicago, Illinois - Food Rescue Chapter President

catwycliff@yahoo.com

Hi, my name is Cathy Wycliff, and I am a chapter president for Food Rescue in Chicagoland, along with Jeanne deVita and Suzannah Park. We believe that success comes in numbers, so we are attacking the Chicago area with combined ideas and vigor!My first memory of volunteering was at 5 years old when I started rolling bandages for the Red Cross with my mom and older sister. Since that event volunteering has been a huge part of my life, whether it was being a soccer mom, a Cub Scout treasurer, PTA member, church volunteer in a soup kitchen, or what have you. My extended family is involved in volunteering as well--nephew, James, is a member of the Peace Corps, currently stationed in the Ukraine. My brother, Bill, volunteers by building homes in Lima, Peru for one week every summer. Sister Colleen knits warm mufflers everyThanksgiving to send to our troops overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan for Christmas.In my spare time, I teach college courses on-line, hang out with my two college-going sons, and travel every chance I get!

Rosie Zielke

Novi, Michigan - Food Rescue Chapter President

garagesalediva@sbcglobal.net

My name is Rosey Zielke and I am the president of the Novi area Food Rescue. I've lived in Michigan my whole life, in a comfortable suburban area. I am part of a loving family that has been fortunate enough to weather all Michigans' economic ups and downs. In the last few years working in the food service industry, the food waste has weighed upon my heart and soul. When I found John's ad on Craigslist, I knew that I had found an opportunity to humbly serve my fellow man. I grappled with time and commitments came to the conclusion that the only thing that mattered were the hungry people that could be fed. I intend to distribute all that I can, because food in the trash doesn't help a single person.

Friends & Organizations

The results of Food Rescue are credited to far more people than just its founders and volunteers. The efforts of all involved would be for naught if it wasn't for friends and organizations, including:

Testimonials From Food Rescue Volunteers

The whole family can get involved in Food Rescue!

Bags of bagels, waiting to be rescued.

"My very first time volunteering to pick up bread at Panera and take it to Third Phase, I tried to call you and cancel (Jan. 23, 2008). I couldn't reach you so I decided to go ahead and do it. The reason I tried to cancel is that I had gone to the ER with my husband that day for a sport's injury and the ER doc had informed us that my 45 year old husband had cancer. We have three kids to raise and I don't know if you can imagine how distraught I was. I didn't want to spend the evening picking up bread. But I did. I spent 2 hours picking up and delivering bread and those 2 hours were spent with God. As I continually envisioned the possibility of a lonely future without my husband, and all manner of horrible thoughts, God showed my that by doing for others, people can feel whole again. Things are going better for us and we are filled with hope for our future and gratitude for people, prayers and the comfort of God."

Sharon Balek

"Just wanted to take a moment and share my story with you about what God has done in regards to my work with the food donations. For years I have been crying out to God to show me where He wanted me to serve. I asked him for something that would utilize the skills and abilities that He gave me. When you contacted me about the opportunity with Panera Bread, something in my spirit said, "YES! this is what you have been waiting for." I love to save money, resources, time and anything else God has allowed me to be a responsible for in my life. To know that by His Grace and Provision we are taking thousands of dollars of food and giving it to people who are hungry instead of the food being thrown in the trash makes me so happy. And this is not cheap food but great food from a restaurant that I patronize when I want a great meal! I can't think of the last time I was able to help donate 25,000.00 a month to "the least of these" as Christ termed it in Matthew 25:31-46. Thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of this effort. By my calculations if I take one night a month at two hours a month (best estimate for the days of inclement weather) then I am part of an investment group that pays 12,500.00 an hour on my part, to the hungry! Not too bad if you ask me. And for every one of the volunteers taking more than one night a week, thank you! I know God sees what you do, and He will reward you here and eternally for your gracious giving. I am praying that if we are faithful with these talents (Matthew 25:14-30) then God will bless us with more. God Bless."

Bryndon Preston

"My experience with Panera Food Deliveries to Third Phase: I was glad to have been asked to help in the delivery of food to Third Phase and that Panera was kind enough to offer such help to our community. Being a child of divorce I know the importance that these types of shelters provide! To find out we have a Christian organization doing this type of outreach is simply outstanding and what a way to have a positive outreach for Christ!

Panera Bread associates lending a helping hand.

Having spent over ten years of food service experience I was aware of how much food can get wasted at the close of a shift. After all we live in America "the land of milk and honey". I was surprised by the volume of just bread items we were able to provide to Third Phase for their food pantry. Who has never thought about the idea if we could take the excess that we produce in our country on any given day to give to those in need?

Those during the closing shift at Panera the workers were more than happy to give and very helpful in packing the goods for transport. It was as if they were happy to not have to throw all the bread away! Those at Third Phase were blessed to get such a bounty of bread and eager to help me unload. This took less than an hour half of time and very easy to deliver. The biggest blessing came to me though knowing that the not only the breaking of bread together, but the "sharing of bread" can make such a difference!"

Michael Worley

"I've never met anyone that has sold out their entire lives to serving others as Jesus would as Betty and Ruth had. I view my service as support to them. I feel privileged to be a part of what God is doing through them."

Mark Flagg

A "food rescue" in action!

James 1:27 - "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after the orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

"God was speaking to me about the opportunity to serve the "needy" and how much of a blessing it has been for me. My neighbor rode with me on Sunday night (Super Bowl Sunday) for the pickup. He is a Christian, and has 2 children. While waiting at Panera, he talked about raising his son, the challenges, the rewards, the vulnerability of being a parent...it was a great time to connect, relate, and encourage him- this happened because of a safe and giving atmosphere that was created by giving to 3rd phase- My neighbor felt safe and was able to share his heart, and God allowed me to encourage him, and he encouraged me- it was a great night! Thanks."

Matt Michael