MGM Resorts International has announced a remarkable achievement in its ongoing battle against hunger. The company has surpassed its ambitious goal of donating five million meals by 2025, reaching this milestone ahead of schedule. Since the inception of the MGM Resorts Feeding Forward program in 2016, the organization has made significant strides in hunger relief efforts.
In 2023 alone, MGM Resorts donated over 1.2 million meals to support food-insecure individuals. This impressive feat was accomplished through a combination of grants to hunger-focused organizations and the innovative practice of rescuing unserved food from the company’s food and beverage operations, ensuring it is safely delivered to communities across the United States.
Early Achievement of a Major Milestone:
MGM Resorts International set a lofty goal of donating five million meals by 2025 and has surpassed this target well ahead of schedule. This success is a testament to the company’s commitment to combating food insecurity and its effective implementation of the Feeding Forward program.
Significant Impact in 2023:
In the year 2023 alone, MGM Resorts donated over 1.2 million meals, showcasing a strong and continued dedication to supporting those in need. This substantial contribution highlights the scale and impact of the program on a yearly basis.
Dual Focus on Hunger Relief and Food Waste Reduction:
The Feeding Forward program not only addresses hunger but also tackles the issue of food waste. By rescuing unserved food from various operations, including buffets and events, and repurposing it for donation, the program exemplifies a sustainable approach to food management.
Innovative Practices in Food Recovery
A standout feature of the Feeding Forward program is its systematic approach to recovering and donating prepared food. Unserved food from MGM Resorts’ buffets and events is cooled, packaged, and frozen using on-property blast chillers. This ensures that the food remains safe for consumption and can be effectively distributed to those in need.
Collaboration with Three Square Food Bank:
MGM Resorts partners with Three Square Food Bank, a key player in the distribution of donated meals. Through this collaboration, the recovered food is distributed to various hunger relief agencies, ensuring it reaches individuals and families facing food insecurity.
Support from Community Partners:
Beth Martino, President and CEO of Three Square Food Bank, emphasized the importance of assistance from major community partners like MGM Resorts. The significant efforts by the company have resulted in hundreds of thousands of pounds of food donated annually, providing critical support in the fight against hunger in Southern Nevada.
Jyoti Chopra’s Insights:
Jyoti Chopra, Chief People, Inclusion, and Sustainability Officer at MGM Resorts, expressed immense pride in the environmental and social impacts of the Feeding Forward program. She highlighted the innovative and creative efforts of the company’s team, which have enabled food recovery at a significant scale, benefiting neighbors struggling with food insecurity.
Commitment to Breaking the Cycle of Malnutrition:
In alignment with the theme of this year’s World Hunger Day, Chopra reiterated MGM Resorts’ commitment to breaking the cycle of malnutrition and contributing to building a thriving world. This dedication is reflected in the company’s ongoing efforts to address both food waste and food insecurity.
Reduction of Food Waste:
By rescuing unserved food, MGM Resorts significantly reduces food waste, contributing to environmental sustainability. This approach not only helps in feeding those in need but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with food production and disposal.
Strengthening Community Resilience:
The donation of millions of meals strengthens community resilience by ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to nutritious food. This support is crucial, especially in regions like Southern Nevada, where food insecurity rates are rising.
Future Directions and Continued Efforts
As MGM Resorts continues to build on the success of the Feeding Forward program, the company remains committed to expanding its efforts in hunger relief and sustainability. The early achievement of the five million meal goal sets a strong foundation for future initiatives aimed at creating a more food-secure and environmentally sustainable community.
MGM Resorts International’s Feeding Forward program stands as a powerful example of how corporate responsibility and innovative practices can make a significant impact on societal issues such as hunger and food waste. By surpassing their goal of donating five million meals ahead of schedule, MGM Resorts has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting food-insecure individuals and fostering sustainable practices. The program’s success underscores the importance of collaboration, innovation, and dedication in creating positive change in the community.