Maple Ridge Foods, led by CEO Matt Spafford, has taken a proactive stance in combating food insecurity across the United States through its innovative program, Shredding Hunger.
By purchasing cheese trimmings at a discounted price and shredding them, Spafford’s company has been able to supply food banks with 1-pound packages of shredded cheese for a nominal cost of $1.90, significantly below retail prices. Each month, a staggering 800,000 pounds of cheese are delivered to food banks nationwide, making a tangible impact on families facing financial hardships.
Driven by personal experience growing up on a modest potato farm, Spafford understands the struggles of working hard and struggling to make ends meet. Witnessing the waste of perfectly good cheese trimmings in the food production process, he seized the opportunity to repurpose them and provide shredded cheese to food pantries. This initiative not only addresses the immediate need for nutritious food but also tackles the issue of food waste, which has long bothered Spafford.
After partnering with Sam Schwoeppe, an Indiana dairy farmer working at Feeding America, the program gained traction and expanded in 2021 with the support of a $1 million grant. Shredding Hunger introduced 8-ounce blocks of cheese as well, aptly named "“Blocking Hunger."” These affordable cheese options enable food banks to cater to diverse needs and preferences within their communities.
In 2022, the successful pilot program laid the foundation for a national distribution initiative. With an investment of $5 million from Feeding America, the program extended its reach to food banks in New York, Kentucky, Florida, Arizona, and California. The goal is to ensure that every Feeding America food bank in the nation has access to these nutritious cheese products.
Shredding Hunger not only addresses hunger but also emphasizes the importance of consuming nutrient-rich foods. Dairy consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, making cheese a valuable addition to food assistance programs. By leveraging partnerships with processors and prioritizing accessibility and affordability, this program provides underserved communities with access to vital nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamins.
Spafford’s vision, combined with Feeding America’s commitment to eliminating food waste and promoting healthier diets, has the potential to make a significant impact on hunger relief efforts across the country. By harnessing the power of collaboration and innovation, Shredding Hunger brings hope and sustenance to individuals and families in need while fostering a more sustainable approach to food distribution.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-YuriyS
Categories: Wisconsin, General