At our annual gala on May 6, 2026, Food Rescue US will proudly celebrate its 15th anniversary—marking 15 years of progress toward ending hunger while protecting our planet.
Join us for an unforgettable evening with others who share a passion for rescuing food and strengthening communities. Guests will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded supporters, preview auction items, and bid on exceptional offerings during a seated dinner. Every moment of the evening will directly support the Food Rescue US mission and the people we serve.
This year’s gala will be a marquee event, introducing fresh elements and renewed energy to a beloved tradition. Across 51 locations in 25 states and Washington, DC, Food Rescue US continues to advance a scalable, community-driven model—and your support is essential to expanding our impact nationwide.
The evening will feature:
Performances that inspire and uplift
Honorees who exemplify the extraordinary work of our community
A personal look at how communities come together through Food Rescue US
Silent and live auctions showcasing luxury items and special experiences
Gourmet dining and cocktails prepared by James Beard award-winning caterer Abigail Kirsch
Whether you are new to Food Rescue US or a longtime champion of our mission, we look forward to celebrating with you at the Celebrate Food Rescue US – 15th Anniversary Gala.
Visionary Award
Ellen Bowen - Site Director, South Florida
Ellen Bowen is the South Florida Site Director for Food Rescue US. As Founder and Managing Director of popular Miami food blog, MIAbites, she heard from many of her contacts and chefs about the excessive amounts of food wasted every day at hotels, restaurants, events and markets.
Using the Food Rescue US app in Florida, volunteer food rescuers pick up nutritious food from local grocers like Trader Joes and Whole Foods, restaurants, hotels, bakeries, and large venues like Hard Rock Stadium. They deliver to shelters, food pantries and other hunger relief organizations. Ellen and her team have completed large scale rescues during Super Bowl LIV, Formula 1, FIFA, Miami Marathon and LIV Golf Tournament and other events.
Abena Koomson-Davis is a performer, educator and wordsmith. Abena originated the role of Fela’s mother in the Off Broadway musical FELA! and reprised her role in the Broadway production which earned Tony Awards for choreography, sound and costume design. She has performed alongside Stevie Wonder, Carly Simon, Angelique Kidjo and many other luminaries.
Jordan Hyde is a professional guitarist and teacher based in Brooklyn, NY. He has decades of experience playing in venues across NYC, as well as national and international tours. As a versatile sideman, he specializes in many different styles, including jazz, funk, rock, blues, country, and folk. He received a BFA in Jazz Performance from The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in NYC.
Enjoy a personal look at how communities come together to eliminate hunger by rescuing excess food, hosted by Lead Site Director of Fairfield County, Karen Saggese, featuring Tyler Wilcox, (Service Area Manager, Wegmans Norwalk), Chef Terano Prior-Higgs (Food Programs Manager, Open Doors) and Craig Lints (Volunteer Food Rescuer, Food Rescue US Fairfield County). Explore how the Food Rescue US community and platform connects surplus food with those who need it most.
