The Rescue Bites project seeks to tackle two critical issues that affect our community: food waste and the well-being of shelter dogs. Every day, local businesses, restaurants, and military units generate significant amounts of surplus food that would otherwise be discarded. This food, still safe and nutritious, can be repurposed to provide much-needed meals for dogs in shelters, reducing food waste while ensuring that these animals receive high-quality, nutritious food.

By diverting food from landfills and putting it to good use, Rescue Bites promotes sustainability, supports animal welfare, and offers a cost-effective solution to feed shelter dogs. This project aims to improve the health and well-being of dogs in shelters while fostering community awareness around food waste and recycling.

Objectives

• Reduce Food Waste: Divert surplus food from local businesses, restaurants, and military units that would typically be thrown away and repurpose it for shelter dogs.
• Provide Nutritious Meals for Shelter Dogs: Ensure that shelter dogs receive balanced and healthy meals made from the repurposed food, helping to improve their health and overall quality of life.
• Promote Sustainability: Encourage a circular economy by recycling surplus food, reducing environmental impact, and fostering sustainability in the community.
• Raise Awareness and Engage the Community: Highlight the importance of food waste reduction, recycling, and animal welfare, engaging local businesses, shelters, and volunteers in meaningful ways.

Outcomes

• Reduction in Food Waste: Surplus food that would otherwise go to waste is repurposed for a meaningful cause, benefiting shelter dogs and reducing environmental impact.
• Improved Health of Shelter Dogs: Dogs in shelters receive a balanced diet, leading to better health, more energy, and improved quality of life.
• Sustainability Awareness: The project promotes awareness around sustainability, recycling, and food waste, involving the community and encouraging responsible practices.
• Cost Savings for Shelters: Animal shelters save on food costs, allowing them to redirect funds to other important needs such as medical care and adoption efforts.

Long-Term Vision

• Scaling Up: Once the program is successfully established in the areas under the responsibility of Samsun Metropolitan Municipality, it could be expanded to the other 17 districts within its jurisdiction. This would involve collaboration with additional military units, local businesses, and animal shelters, further increasing the impact and reach of the initiative.
• Sustainable Partnerships: Build lasting partnerships with local businesses and military units to ensure a constant supply of surplus food for shelters.
• Environmental Impact: Continue to advocate for food waste reduction and sustainability as part of a broader environmental effort in the community.