Food Stash Foundation was founded in 2016 by David Schein, a local Vancouver-based teacher who became inspired to reduce food waste after watching the documentary Just Eat It: A Food Waste Story. He saw an opportunity to improve our environment while also feeding individuals and families in need. By October 2017, Food Stash became a registered Canadian charity. The Rescued Food Box program had its beginnings in a basement suite, where David and volunteers would meet to sort and box food for 9 families. His energy and dedication was infectious - as our volunteer base grew, so did the support from our community, both of which enable Food Stash to continue to make a positive impact in the lives of many across our city. David remains a part of the organization today as co-chair on our Board of Directors.
Our Time in Burnaby
In 2017 we were thrilled to become a part of the YVR Prep community and work out of this Burnaby-based food commissary. The access to cold storage gave us the ability to expand our programs and collaborate when the pandemic hit. In 2020, we were honoured to be recognized as finalists in the Burnaby Business Excellence Awards for:
Non for profit organization of the year, and
Environmental sustainability
We owe this accomplishment to our staff, volunteers and community members who share and support our passion for eliminating waste and building food security.
Today
We’ve come a long way since our humble beginnings and now rescue over 100,000 pounds of food per month, redistributing it to our 35+ partner charities and 120+ members. You can now find us in our very own warehouse at 290 E 1st Avenue, Vancouver BC!
