Nourishing USA facts for kids

Nourishing USA is a special kind of organization called a non-profit. It helps people across the United States and in Puerto Rico. This group works with over 9,500 community helpers and organizations that save food. They support about 500 local charities. These charities include food pantries, soup kitchens, senior centers, and places for people to stay in emergencies.

The current leader, Simon Hancock, became the CEO in January 2013. A past leader, Gina Keatley, was even named a CNN Hero in 2011. Before September 2010, the organization was known as Nourishing NYC.

How Nourishing USA Started and Grew

Nourishing USA has an interesting history of helping communities. It has grown from a local effort to a nationwide organization.

Becoming a National Charity

In September 2010, Nourishing USA was recognized as the Charity of the Year at the Classy Awards. This event was shown on NBC San Diego. This award helped them become known across the country.

Working with FedEx for Deliveries

In October 2010, FedEx became a partner with Nourishing USA. FedEx helped by shipping special kits for free. These kits were sent out in 2010 and 2011 to help fight hunger. FedEx used special gasoline-electric hybrid trucks for these deliveries. Many of these trucks were based in the Bronx, New York. This made it the first FedEx location to use only hybrid vehicles.

Changing the Name to Nourishing USA

Also in September 2010, the organization changed its name. It went from Nourishing NYC to Nourishing USA. This new name showed their goal to provide good food for everyone. They wanted to stop people from being malnourished in low-income areas across America.

Helping Redesign a Waterfront Area

In August 2009, a group called Emerging New York Architects Committee (ENYA) chose Nourishing USA. They picked them for a design competition. The competition was about redesigning an old sanitation station in the Hudson River. This project aimed to connect the local Harlem community with the waterfront. It was part of a bigger plan to use the city's waterfront for public enjoyment.

How Nourishing USA Helps Communities

Nourishing USA works hard to help people get healthy food and learn about good nutrition. They connect people who want to help with the tools they need.

Fighting Hunger and Obesity

Nourishing USA helps community leaders across the country. They give them tools and ideas to grow fresh food locally. This food is then given away for free. This helps fight problems like poverty and obesity. The national office creates educational materials about healthy eating. These materials explain malnourishment and provide information on hunger. They also share details about programs that help people in need.

Getting National Attention

Nourishing USA has been featured on popular shows like the Dr. Oz Show in 2011. They were also on BBC World News. In 2010, they were chosen as the Charity of Choice by Post Foods. Their main goal is to offer good nutrition for everyone. In 2010, Nourishing USA helped give out over 25,000 pounds of fresh food. This food went to families in areas where it's hard to find fresh groceries.

Partnering with the New York Yankees

Nourishing USA also worked with The New York Yankees. Together, they created the Healthy Home Plate Program. This program was based on Nourishing USA's own award-winning Junior Chef Program. It teaches kids about healthy eating.