Casey’s Convenience Stores: A Critical Gap in Food Rescue Efforts
Casey’s, one of the largest convenience store chains in the Midwest, operates nearly 100 stores in key regions. With their extensive reach and regular food inventory turnover, these stores are in a unique position to combat food waste and address food insecurity. However, recent findings paint a stark picture: not a single Casey’s location has an independently confirmed food donation program.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
Out of 96 Casey’s stores surveyed:
0 stores have an independently confirmed food donation program.
96 stores are independently confirmed to have no active food rescue efforts.
This statistic is not just a missed opportunity—it’s an urgent call for action. Casey’s locations serve thousands of customers daily, and the volume of edible but unsellable food that could be redirected to local food pantries and shelters is substantial.
Why Food Rescue at Casey’s Matters
Convenience stores, like Casey’s, stock a mix of fresh foods, pre-packaged meals, and baked goods—all items prone to expiration but still edible. Without a structured food recovery program, these items often end up in landfills, contributing to environmental damage and exacerbating food insecurity in surrounding communities.
A Blueprint for Change
Implementing a food recovery program at Casey’s would require:
Clear guidelines on food safety and donation protocols.
Partnerships with local food rescue organizations.
Training for staff to manage food donations efficiently.
Organizations like Found Food Co. are already working to build bridges between food retailers and community food programs. With Casey’s scale and visibility, the potential for impact is undeniable.
Time to Take Action
The data is clear: Casey’s has a tremendous opportunity to lead by example in the convenience store sector. By investing in food rescue initiatives, they can reduce waste, support local communities, and become a model for responsible corporate citizenship.
It’s time for Casey’s to turn these numbers around and become part of the solution to food insecurity. The opportunity is there—the next step is action.