The Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) was recently recognized for its Regional Food Rescue Program by the Public Relations Society of America Inland Empire (PRSAIE) with an award in the category of Environmental Sustainability Communications.
This recognition, receiving the highest honor in the category, a Polaris award, celebrates WRCOG’s exceptional efforts to raise awareness about food recovery, reduce food waste, and foster community partnerships, aligning with California’s environmental goals under Senate Bill (SB) 1383.
Senate Bill 1383, also known as the Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Reduction Act, mandates a 75 percent reduction in organic waste disposal and a 20 percent increase in edible food recovery for human consumption by 2025. In response to these critical objectives, WRCOG developed a Regional Food Rescue Program to support its member agencies in achieving compliance.
The program currently spans five participating cities: Jurupa Valley, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, Perris, and San Jacinto, and focuses on educating commercial edible food generators about their donation obligations and increasing connections with food recovery organizations. In 2023/2024, the program secured more than 2,084 tons of food donations.
“The recognition from PRSA Inland Empire underscores the impact of our Regional Food Rescue Program,” WRCOG Executive Director Dr. Kurt Wilson said. “This award reflects the dedication of our team and the strength of our partnerships in advancing solutions that benefit our communities.”
For more information about the WRCOG Food Rescue Program, visit www.wrcog.us.
