The Harris County – Houston Sports Authority demonstrated its unwavering commitment to sustainability and community engagement during the highly anticipated Men’s Final Four tournament held in Houston March 31- April 3, 2023. With a shared vision of minimizing the environmental footprint of its events, the organizing committee sought community input on food waste reduction efforts that directly benefited the local community. The result was a partnership with Second Servings of Houston, Houston’s only perishable food rescue nonprofit, to ensure that surplus food and beverages did not go to waste but reached those in need.
The food and beverage rescue operation involved two stages. On April 4 and April 5, a total of 7,716 pounds of beverages were salvaged from the Partnership Tower & Marriott Marquis and subsequently delivered to esteemed organizations, including East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Community Family Centers, Mission Centers of Houston, Wesley Community Center, and East End Social Services. Thanks to this initiative, over 5,000 individuals were provided with nourishment, ensuring that no excess went to waste.
Furthermore, on April 4, an additional food rescue of 720 pounds of food took place at NRG Stadium. Second Servings delivered the excess to the Houston Area Women’s Center and US Vets Midtown, who distributed over 960 meals to their constituents.
The Harris Country – Houston Sports Authority Local Organizing Committee is proud to showcase the spirit of collaboration and responsible stewardship through the food rescue effort. Through collective efforts, surplus food from this highly acclaimed sporting event was redistributed to reduce waste, fight hunger, and provide sustenance for those who need it most.
About Second Servings:
Second Servings’ mission is to alleviate hunger and reduce waste in Houston by picking up unsold and unserved food from food businesses, such as distributors, retailers, and manufacturers, and delivering it the same day, for free, to local shelters, soup kitchens, low-income housing, and many other nonprofit partners. For more information or to donate, visit www.secondservingshouston.org.
About Harris County – Houston Sports Authority
Harris County – Houston Sports Authority (HCHSA) maintains the facilities and services the debt of the world-class, professional sports venues it was created to build. To support this primary mission, HCHSA is a leading proponent in attracting sporting events to Houston and promoting the city as a home for sports-related activities. This ultimately results in enhancing Houston’s economic development, improving the quality of life for its residents, and maintaining the city and county as a premier destination for marquee events.
HCHSA also operates annual programs to honor and recognize excellence in athletics, support the local community through programming and donations, and showcase the spirit and culture of the city. These events include the Houston Sports Awards, Houston Sports Hall of Fame, Abilities In Motion, and the National Battle of the Bands.
