In a world where millions sleep hungry each night, it takes just one determined soul to start a movement. For Arun Kumar, that moment came in 2018 when he witnessed trays of untouched food being discarded after lavish weddings and tech events in Chennai. But unlike most, he didn’t look away—he acted.
Driven by compassion and responsibility, Arun founded No Food Waste, a non-profit that now rescues over 40,000 meals a month. With a small but relentless team, he started collecting surplus food from events, restaurants, and households. This food, which would otherwise end up in garbage bins, is now nourishing lives in slums, shelters, and streets across the city.
Arun’s work goes beyond just food distribution. He and his team also run a community kitchen that prepares fresh meals daily. They’ve built a robust logistics network and food safety practices to ensure quality and hygiene. But the journey hasn’t been easy.
“People still hesitate to donate leftover food. We battle low awareness, a shortage of volunteers, and limited funds every day,” Arun shares. Yet he never gave up. His belief? One meal can change someone’s day, and one small act of kindness can change the world.
He urges everyone to be part of the solution: “Don’t throw that leftover food away. Share it. You could be the reason someone sleeps with a full stomach tonight.”
FAQs
Q1: Is it safe to donate leftover food?
Yes. No Food Waste follows strict food safety guidelines. They only collect edible, unspoiled food and ensure it’s transported and distributed within a few hours. Donors are guided on what’s acceptable, and the team inspects everything before it’s served.
Q2: How can I volunteer or contribute to No Food Waste?
You can help by volunteering your time, donating funds, or spreading awareness. Even sharing food from a small family gathering can make a difference. Visit No Food Waste’s official website or follow them on social media to get started.
Let’s stop wasting and start sharing. Hunger doesn’t need grand solutions—just simple actions.
Source: Better India
