Haven's Harvest expands food recovery efforts to combat New Haven's food insecurity

New Haven's Board of Alders Finance Committee meeting on April 30, 2025, highlighted significant community initiatives aimed at addressing food insecurity and enhancing local support systems. Roberto Casanueva, operations manager at Haven's Harvest, presented compelling evidence of the organization's impact, reporting the successful redirection of over 373,000 pounds of food this year alone. Casanueva emphasized the importance of investing in established infrastructure that effectively connects surplus food with those in need, showcasing the organization's collaboration with various community partners to deliver groceries to nearly 300 families recently.

The meeting also featured Kevin McCarthy, a long-time volunteer and advocate for food security, who voiced support for reviving the Food Policy Council. He noted the council's previous success in fostering collaboration among food security nonprofits and suggested that administrative support similar to that of the Environmental Advisory Council could enhance its effectiveness.

Lou Purnau, interim executive director of the New Haven Pride Center, underscored the critical role of local organizations in combating food insecurity. He reported that the Pride Center's food pantry serves approximately 200 households monthly, providing essential resources to those facing financial hardships. Purnau called for continued support for food assistance initiatives, highlighting the growing challenges of poverty and food insecurity in the community.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a strong commitment from local leaders and organizations to tackle food insecurity and support vulnerable populations in New Haven. As these initiatives gain momentum, the community can expect a more coordinated approach to addressing these pressing issues, fostering resilience and dignity among its residents.