Eastmont Community Center (ECC) is excited to highlight our ongoing partnership with Kroger and its remarkable efforts to eliminate food waste and combat hunger through its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste campaign. Recently, Isaias Hernandez, ECC's Executive Director, had the opportunity to visit Kroger’s headquarters in Compton, where he witnessed firsthand the impressive scale of their operations and commitment to creating a sustainable future for both people and the planet.
A Shared Vision: Fighting Hunger and Reducing Waste
Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative is a social impact plan aimed at tackling two critical issues: ending hunger in the communities where they operate and eliminating food waste company-wide by 2025. Last year alone, Kroger provided 27 million meals through their efforts—an impressive milestone that reflects their dedication to both their mission and the community. Every Kroger store donates food to local organizations, including ECC, ensuring that perfectly edible food is not wasted but instead goes to families in need. This is a key element in ECC’s own mission to improve food security and reduce waste, aligning perfectly with Kroger's goals.
From Store to Sustainability
During his visit to Kroger’s Compton facility, Isaias Hernandez learned how the company manages food waste across its stores. Any remaining food waste from stores is sent back to Kroger’s Compton facility, where it undergoes biogas bio-diversion, transforming waste into sustainable energy. The facility processes an astounding 200 to 250 tons of waste per day, making it a critical hub in Kroger’s strategy to eliminate waste.
Isaias shared vivid impressions of his tour, noting the bittersweet, vinegar-like scent in the disposal facility, which serves as a reminder of the immense scale of the operation. While the scent may be strong, it represents the impactful work Kroger is doing to turn waste into something positive.
Philanthropy with Purpose
Kroger’s philanthropic efforts are deeply rooted in their mission to serve the highest-need communities, ensuring their giving directly aligns with their Zero Hunger | Zero Waste campaign. Their work goes beyond food donation, encompassing a full commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. As part of their ongoing initiative, Kroger continues to support ECC’s efforts to rescue food and help feed vulnerable families in East Los Angeles.
A Bright Future for Our Communities
Together, ECC and Kroger are working toward a future where food insecurity is eradicated, and food waste is a thing of the past. We are proud to partner with Kroger, whose mission to Feed the Human Spirit mirrors our own commitment to uplifting our community and providing essential resources to those in need. As we continue to pick up and distribute food from Kroger stores, we are not only reducing food waste but also improving the lives of countless families in our community.
For more information about Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste campaign, visit their foundation at The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation.