Community Member Dropping Off Garden Donation

Dear friend,

At Lift UP, we believe that everyone deserves fresh, nourishing food—and that no good food should go to waste. 

Last fiscal year, we distributed a record-breaking 869,266 pounds of food across Northwest and Downtown Portland. More than 22% of that food was gleaned—rescued from local grocery partners, farms, and other various entities. 

What is“gleaning"? 
Gleaning is collecting leftover food from farms or stores that would otherwise go to waste. This practice not only helps reduce food insecurity but also diverts edible food from landfills—supporting a healthier environment for all. 

“Lift UP gives a new life to food because it's not just regular, basic canned food. It's uplifting!” – Delivered Grocery Recipient 

We're expanding our environmental impact in other ways too. This month, Preston's Pantry launched a new composting initiative to further reduce waste from food that can't be safely redistributed. What can't feed people, now feeds pigs—helping to keep food out of landfills and put it to good use.  

This means more nutritious food reaches the people who need it most, and the food that doesn't still has a meaningful purpose. 

“They bring fresh fruit, milk, and eggs that I need and use every day. It reminds me of shopping at New Seasons or Whole Foods.” – Chris, Pantry Shopper 

“Preston's Pantry has kept my family fed during rough times. Without you, I would have gone hungry more than once.” – Pantry Client 

While we're doing everything we can to glean as much nutritious food as possible, we're doing so in the midst of ongoing USDA funding freezes—which are compromising another critical source of our fresh food supply from Oregon Food Bank. 

We're still tracking the numbers, but early signs show a 50% drop in fresh food deliveries this month alone—more than double the 20% decline we initially braced for. That's a steep cut at a time when demand is only growing. 

To keep doing this work—and doing it sustainably—we've set a goal of reaching 100 Root Partners by September, each giving at least $35/month. This steady support helps us brace for winter, when produce variety is typically lower, and allows us to bolster our supply of other essentials like dairy and eggs. Root Partners are the reason we can continue distributing fresh, healthy food with dignity and intention—even when our traditional food streams fall short. 

💚 Become a Root Partner today and help us grow a system that nourishes both people and the planet: 
https://secure.givelively.org/donate/lift-urban-portland/become-a-root-partner 

By rescuing food that would otherwise go to waste, and by rallying monthly support through Root Partners, we're building a stronger, more sustainable food system—one that values every resource and every neighbor. 

Together, we can ensure that fresh, nourishing food not only reaches those who need it most—but keeps flowing, season after season. 

Grateful for your consideration,

Stephanie Barr, Executive Director

Food brings us together.