Let's make food waste history

Food waste affects all of us. It drives up grocery bills, costs businesses money, contributes to climate change, and leaves good food unused while many families struggle to put healthy meals on the table.

At Make Food Not Waste, we’re bringing communities, businesses, schools, and residents together to change that. By helping Southeast Michigan make better use of food, we’re strengthening food security, supporting local businesses, protecting our environment, and building a more resilient future for everyone.

Why It Matters

Good food should feed people — not landfills.

Every day, wholesome food is discarded while many of our neighbors struggle to access nutritious meals. Making better use of food means more meals for families, less strain on emergency food providers, and stronger, healthier communities.

How We're Making Change

Food waste happens throughout our food system, which means solving it takes more than one solution.

We’re working across Southeast Michigan to help food reach its highest and best purpose by feeding people, supporting local businesses, strengthening communities, and protecting the environment.

Food Recovery

When surplus food exists, we work to ensure it feeds people whenever possible.

Explore Food Recovery

Communities

Helping cities and counties build stronger food systems through planning, education, and collaboration.

Explore Community Solutions

Businesses

Helping food businesses waste less, save money, and improve operations.

Explore Business Solutions

Schools

Helping schools implement food waste reduction strategies that engage students, save money, and divert food from landfills.

Explore School Programs

Households

Helping people save money and waste less food through practical, everyday solutions.

Explore Household Resources

Our Impact

Together, we're creating measurable change across Southeast Michigan.

meals provided

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pounds of food recovered

communities implementing food waste solutions

businesses reducing waste and improving operations

students increasing appreciation of food

volunteers engaged

residents engaged

pounds of greenhouse gas emissions avoided

In Action

Every day, people across Southeast Michigan are proving that small changes can make a big difference.

From restaurants finding new ways to reduce waste, to students learning to appreciate food, to volunteers transforming surplus food into nutritious meals, every success story moves us one step closer to a future where food is valued and nothing useful goes to waste.

Working Together Across Michigan

Real change happens when people work together.

We’re proud to partner with local governments, schools, businesses, food recovery organizations, foundations, volunteers, and thousands of residents throughout Southeast Michigan who are committed to making better use of food.