Riverside, CA – The Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) was recently recognized for its Regional Food Rescue Program by the Public Relations Society of America Inland Empire (PRSAIE) with an award in the category of Environmental Sustainability Communications. This recognition, receiving the highest honor in the category, a Polaris award, celebrates WRCOG’s exceptional efforts to raise awareness about food recovery, reduce food waste, and foster community partnerships, aligning with California’s ambitious environmental goals under Senate Bill (SB) 1383.
Senate Bill 1383, also known as the Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Reduction Act, mandates a 75% reduction in organic waste disposal and a 20% increase in edible food recovery for human consumption by 2025. In response to these critical objectives, WRCOG developed a Regional Food Rescue Program to support its member agencies in achieving compliance.
Currently, the Program spans five participating cities—Jurupa Valley, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, Perris, and San Jacinto—and focuses on educating commercial edible food generators about their donation obligations and increasing connections with food recovery organizations. In 2023/2024 the program secured over 2,084 tons of food donations.
“The recognition from PRSA Inland Empire underscores the impact of our Regional Food Rescue Program,” said Dr. Kurt Wilson, Executive Director of WRCOG. “This award reflects the dedication of our team and the strength of our partnerships in advancing solutions that benefit our communities.”
WRCOG’s Food Rescue Program sets a standard for how local jurisdictions can effectively meet SB 1383 requirements while addressing environmental concerns and food insecurity. This award highlights WRCOG’s leadership in driving regional collaboration and sustainable practices.
“This program exemplifies how community partnerships and shared resources can create real solutions to pressing challenges,” said Rita Rogers, Chair of the WRCOG Executive Committee. “Through this collaborative effort, we’re building a stronger support network that benefits both the environment and the residents of our region.”
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