Q: Is Waste Not a food bank?

A: No, however, we collaborate with area food banks in the overall food recovery efforts of the Valley. There are two major differences between Waste Not and a food bank: 1) We do not warehouse food. We deliver food the same day it is collected to more than100 diverse agencies that feed the hungry. 2) We recover perishable food, that is food that has been cooked - from restaurants, resorts, and caterers. We also work with various non-perishable suppliers such as grocers and various food vendors.

Q: Is there a fee for your services?

A: No, we have no program fees.

Q: Does Waste Not pick up food from individuals?

A: Not as a rule. If you hold a catered event, however, we can possibly make arrangements with your caterer for recovery of surplus food.

Q: What are my liabilities with regard to the donation of food?

A: None. Donors are protected by the GOOD SAMARITAN LAW, passed by the Arizona legislature in August of 1989 that exempts Waste Not donors from potential liability or damages related to the donation of perishable foods.

Q: Does Waste Not pick up leftovers from buffet tables?

A: No.  Food that has been served, or placed on a buffet, is not eligible for pick-up due to health regulations. Excess food must have been properly maintained (refrigerated) and held in the kitchen without being served in order to qualify for pick up.

Q: Does Waste Not pick up at night?

A: No. Our trucks begin running at 6:30am, Monday through Saturday. As we do not warehouse food, it is impossible for us to pick up and deliver to our agencies during evening hours.

Q: Can I drop food off at your location?

A: No. We do not warehouse food. Our trucks pick up food and drop it off to our recipient agencies the same day. We have no storage facilities.

Q: If I have a small amount of food, less than will feed 20-25 people, can you refer me to someone who can use it?

A: Yes. Call us and we will refer you to a recipient agency in your area that would use and appreciate your donation.

Q: Do you deliver food to individuals?

A: No. We deliver only to 501 (c) (3) agencies.

Q: How can our agency become a food recipient? What is your criteria?

A: Please refer to the Who We Help page.

Q: What areas of the Valley do you serve?

A: Our service area runs from the 101 west to the 101 east, and from the 101 north, south to Chandler Blvd. For pick-ups outside our service area, we will make every effort to coordinate a pick up for you, or else direct you to a facility near you that would welcome and appreciate the donation of your excess food.