FOOD RECOVERY NETWORK HOSTS FREE POP-UP PRODUCE MARKETS FOR BALTIMORE SCHOOL FAMILIES

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BALTIMORE, Aug. 7, 2025 ~ Baltimore, MD- In an effort to combat food insecurity and reduce food waste, the Food Recovery Network (FRN) has been distributing free fresh produce to children and families in Baltimore through pop-up farmers markets at Title I elementary schools. This program, which aims to recover and redistribute surplus produce, has been successful in increasing access to fresh food for those in need while also diverting food from going to waste.

Through a data-driven approach, FRN identified Baltimore as a key area where there is both a high need and opportunity for their produce distribution program. "We are experts at recovering perfectly good food from all parts of the food system, and we are thrilled to be in community with Baltimore to increase food access," says Regina Harmon, Chief Executive Officer of FRN. "Everyone deserves food and when we recover perfectly good food, we keep the value of that food, and in partnership, we commit to growing dignity for everyone."

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FRN works closely with various stakeholders and partners in Baltimore, including Baltimore County Public Schools, to achieve their shared goals of increased food access. These partners play a crucial role in informing the design and implementation of FRN's programs, ensuring that efforts are relevant to the needs and capacities of the community. Other partners include Hungry Harvest and CASA.

The support of FRN student-led chapters at Towson University, Goucher College, Stevenson College, and St. John's College is also vital to the success of this program. These college student volunteers help with the distribution of surplus produce at pop-up markets.

Since July 2024, FRN has hosted 16 pop-up produce markets across two Title I schools in Baltimore: Lakeland Elementary/Middle School and Fort Worthington Elementary/Middle School. Through these markets, FRN has distributed an impressive 14,850 pounds of surplus produce from community farms to 1,230 families in the Baltimore area.

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FRN is a national nonprofit organization that mobilizes 8,000 college students, food providers, and local businesses in the fight against climate change and hunger. Their mission is to recover perishable food across the supply chain that would otherwise go to waste and donate it to organizations that feed people experiencing hunger. With programs on nearly 200 college campuses and 100 food businesses in 46 states and D.C., FRN has recovered over 22.9 million pounds of food to date. This is equivalent to 19 million meals donated to feed individuals experiencing hunger and has prevented 7419.5 metric tons of CO2e from entering the atmosphere.

Through their efforts, FRN is not only providing fresh produce to those in need but also making a significant impact on reducing food waste and fighting climate change. With the support of their partners and volunteers, they are committed to continuing their mission of increasing food access for all while promoting sustainability in Baltimore and beyond.
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