Leket Israel

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Leket Israel is the largest food rescue organization in Israel. It was founded in 2003 by Joseph Gitler to address the problem of food waste and to help alleviate hunger in Israel. The organization collects surplus food from various sources, including farms, hotels, army bases, and catering halls, and redistributes it to those in need through a network of non-profit organizations.

History

Leket Israel was established in 2003 by Joseph Gitler, a lawyer who immigrated to Israel from the United States. Gitler was inspired to start the organization after witnessing significant food waste at events and realizing the potential to redirect this surplus to help those in need. Initially, the organization operated under the name Table to Table, focusing on rescuing prepared food. In 2010, it merged with Leket Israel, which was focused on rescuing agricultural produce, and adopted the name Leket Israel.

Operations

Leket Israel operates several key programs to rescue and redistribute food:

• Project Leket - This program involves the collection of surplus agricultural produce from farms and packing houses. Volunteers and staff harvest and collect fruits and vegetables that would otherwise go to waste.
• Meal Rescue - This initiative rescues surplus cooked meals from hotels, army bases, and catering halls. The meals are then redistributed to non-profit organizations that serve people in need.
• Sandwiches for Kids - Leket Israel provides daily sandwiches to children from low-income families in schools across Israel.
• Nutrition for Life - This program focuses on providing nutritional education and support to the recipients of Leket Israel's food.

Impact

Leket Israel has made a significant impact on reducing food waste and alleviating hunger in Israel. Each year, the organization rescues thousands of tons of food, which is then distributed to hundreds of non-profit organizations serving tens of thousands of people in need. The organization also plays a role in raising awareness about food waste and promoting sustainable practices.

Volunteering and Support

Leket Israel relies heavily on volunteers to carry out its food rescue operations. Volunteers participate in activities such as gleaning fields, packing food, and distributing meals. The organization also receives support from various donors, including individuals, corporations, and foundations.

See also

• Food waste
• Food rescue
• Hunger in Israel
• Non-profit organization

Related Pages

• Joseph Gitler
• Food waste
• Non-profit organization
• Hunger in Israel