Across the nation, schools have adopted the innovative concept of share tables, which have proven effective in minimizing food waste while simultaneously helping to nourish hungry students. The premise is straightforward: students can leave any unopened food or beverages they do not wish to consume on the share table, allowing others to take what they find appealing. At the day’s end, any remaining food is often donated to local food banks or charities.
While the precise inception of share tables is unclear, their popularity surged following a June 2016 memo from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees the federal lunch program. The USDA described share tables as “an innovative strategy to encourage the consumption of nutritious foods and reduce food waste.”
Local Impact: Orange County, Florida
In Orange County, Florida, around 20 schools have implemented share table programs. For instance, Westwood Academy has partnered with a local church, which distributes the leftover food to those in need, feeding approximately 100 individuals weekly. “Without this program, that food would simply end up in dumpsters,” noted Pastor Mike Thompson of Grace Community Church, which benefits from the donations. “It truly makes a difference.”
Federal lunch programs mandate that students select a certain amount of food, even if they are not in the mood to eat or simply too full. Once served, this food cannot be reused the next day. Share tables provide a solution, allowing schools to repurpose nutritious items instead of discarding them.
Student Initiatives
In cases where schools do not partner with charities, leftover food can be sent home with students who could use the extra help. “Less fortunate students who may not have a lunch or snack can come and take fruit or snacks like chips and yogurt from the table,” explained seventh-grader Ava Collins, who initiated a share table at her school, Maple Grove Middle School in New Haven, Connecticut.
The open-access nature of share tables eliminates any stigma, as all students can freely take food without fear of judgment from their peers. Collins shared that no issues have arisen at her school, stating, “Most kids just stick with their friends and chat among themselves; no one pays much attention to what’s happening at the food table.”
The Future of Share Tables
It is hoped that share tables will become a standard feature in school cafeterias everywhere. Is there a share table at your child’s school? We’d love to hear your experiences in the comments.
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In summary, share tables are a practical solution to reduce food waste in schools while addressing the needs of hungry students. By encouraging a culture of sharing, these initiatives help foster a supportive community among students.