Congratulations to StopWaste’s FY 2024- 2025 Grantees!

From reusable foodware in schools to surplus food donations to sustainable packaging, StopWaste-funded projects help Hayward organizations reduce waste and build a greener future. StopWaste recently announced grants to ten local organizations totaling more than $100,000 to support waste reduction and food recovery efforts. 

Reusable Foodware Grant 

The Hayward Unified School District received funding to transition school cafeterias from single-use disposable to reusable foodware. The grant will equip school kitchens with dishwashers and replace plastic utensils and trays with stainless steel alternatives, promoting sustainable practices among students. The district is part of a county-wide effort to implement reusable foodware in school cafeterias. 

Surplus Food Donation Equipment Grant 

Three Hayward area recipients received StopWaste’s Surplus Food Donation Equipment Grants to expand food recovery:   

• Eikon Church of the Nazarene, which serves vulnerable communities, will upgrade its storage and distribution infrastructure, to serve more individuals in need.  
• Mary Barber Ministries, which provides food, clothing, and hygiene support, will purchase commercial refrigeration equipment to safely store perishable food. 
• Peace Haven Corporation will invest in freezers, shelving, and shopping carts to boost food distribution by 30%, helping hundreds of additional families each month. 

Reusable Transport Packaging Grants 

Six Hayward-serving organizations were among eight in Alameda County to receive StopWaste’s Reusable Transport Packaging Grants: 

• A.S.I Cyber Concepts LLC will replace disposable cardboard shipping boxes with durable plastic ones.  
• Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM), which operates the Hayward farmers market, will provide reusable totes to underserved BIPOC and women farmers.  
• Modern Express Courier will replace wooden pallets and plastic shrink wrap with reusable materials for event logistics and regular route deliveries.  
• BART will adopt durable reusable pallets to replace single-use pallets.  
• SOS Meals on Wheels, one of Alameda County’s largest senior nutrition providers, will replenish insulated tote and cooler bags to safely transport senior meals.  
• The Red Door Group will swap out plastic wrap for reusable alternatives for catering equipment. 

These initiatives exemplify StopWaste’s commitment to fostering environmental sustainability and waste reduction in Hayward. By supporting local organizations, the agency helps create lasting, community-based solutions. Learn more by viewing StopWaste’s Grants webpage.