Once you've assessed what surplus edible food your business generates, the next step is finding a food recovery organization to receive it. Alameda County has a range of organizations that pick up and redistribute surplus food to people in need.
Search the Directory
StopWaste maintains a searchable directory of food recovery organizations serving Alameda County.
On-Demand Donation Matching
If your surplus food is unpredictable or you need a flexible option, these platforms allow you to post donations on-demand and be matched with a recipient organization:
- Careit — Free donation-matching technology that links food producers with hunger-relief organizations. Recommended by StopWaste for coordinating surplus food recovery.
- FoodRecovery.org — Online platform connecting grocery stores, restaurants, and other food sources with emergency food providers and community organizations.
Types of Food Recovery Organizations
- Food Banks and Pantries - Collect and distribute food to individuals and families in need. Often accept a wide variety of shelf-stable and perishable items.
- Meal Programs - Serve prepared meals to community members. May accept ready-to-eat foods or ingredients for cooking.
- Gleaning Organizations - Focus on recovering fresh produce from farms, gardens, and food businesses.
- Rescue and Redistribution Services - Pick up surplus food from businesses and deliver to community organizations.
What to Ask Potential Partners
Before establishing an agreement, find out:
- What types of food do you accept?
- What are your pickup days and times?
- Do you have refrigerated transport?
- What are your food safety requirements?
- How do you track and report donations?
Donating to Staff
As an alternative to partnering with a food recovery organization, you can donate surplus food directly to staff or employees. This must be documented to count toward compliance. You may also use this approach alongside an agreement with a food recovery organization.
Can't Find a Partner?
StopWaste offers free assistance to help match your business with a food recovery organization in your area.
Next Steps
- Establish a Donation Process — Set up a written agreement and procedures
- Track Donations and Keep Records — Download record-keeping forms