Community Corner: Helping to fight hunger

Tuesday, November 15

Rescuing food to help others: Linebacker T.J. Watt returned to the playing field on Sunday, making his presence known in the Steelers win over the New Orleans Saints.

Two days later he made his presence known in the Pittsburgh community, working hand in hand with 412 Food Rescue, an organization he has been affiliated with for several years now.

“I always enjoy getting involved in the community, and 412 Food Rescue has been a great opportunity for me to get out there and let them know I care about what they are doing,” said Watt, who was joined by his wife Dani helping out. “I want to get involved as much as possible. 412 Food Rescue provides so many meals for families that don’t necessarily have the opportunity to afford food, especially with Thanksgiving and all of the holidays coming up. It’s a way to give back.”

Watt helped to pack food at the Millvale Good Food Project, a hunger relief program operated by 412 Food Rescue that transforms surplus foods in healthy, heat-and-eat meals and groceries that are distributed to area residents dealing with food insecurity. Over 500 grocery bags are packed and disturbed weekly in partnership with the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh.

“Food insecurity is something that people can’t always control their circumstances,” said Watt. “We understand everyone is trying their best, but sometimes you need a helping hand. That is what we are trying to provide. A lot of these families have young kids who don’t control the situation they are born into. To be able to help out as much as possible is awesome.”

Watt began working with the agency in 2019, choosing to team with 412 Food Rescue, a Pittsburgh based organization that was founded as a response to the disconnect between food waste, hunger and environmental sustainability, because he knows the importance of having proper nutrition and not having to worry about where your next meal is coming from.

The efforts of 412 Food Rescue are made possible by their affiliation with local distributors, mom and pop stores, chain restaurants and urban farms all with the goal of not letting quality food go to waste.

“I think it’s important to let everyone know who is donating, those who might want to donate, that everything is getting used,” said Watt. “The food is not discarded. It’s going to good use and going to make a lot of people happy.”