The Edmonton Oilers Are Scoring Big in the Fight Against Hunger 🧡💙

The Edmonton Oilers are known for making big plays on the ice, but their latest move off the ice is just as impressive. The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation has launched an enhanced food recovery program, ensuring that surplus food from Rogers Place doesn’t go to waste. Instead, it’s being redirected to those in need, making a tangible difference in the community.

From the Rink to the Table

With thousands of fans attending hockey games and live events, Rogers Place produces a significant amount of food every night. While the goal is always to serve just the right amount, surplus food is inevitable. Rather than letting it go to waste, the Oilers Foundation has partnered with Second Harvest and La Tablée des Chefs to ensure excess food reaches local charities, including Edmonton’s Food Bank.

“On any given night, our goal is for the last dish to be placed as service concludes, or the final hot dog to sell just before the event ends,” said Fabian Ffrench, executive chef at Rogers Place. “Despite these meticulous efforts, some surplus food is inevitable, and recovery initiatives like these will help make a meaningful impact in the community.”

The Impact So Far

Since launching the enhanced program on January 28, 2024, the results have been incredible:

• 1,813 servings of food have been donated

• 544 kg of surplus food has been saved from going to waste

• Multiple local charities, including Edmonton’s Food Bank, have received vital meal support

This initiative is a win-win: it reduces food waste while ensuring more people have access to nutritious meals.

“This collaboration is a fantastic example of how we can turn surplus food into vital meals for those in need, tackling food waste and hunger at the same time,” said Lori Nikkel, CEO of Second Harvest.

A Model Every City Should Follow

The Oilers aren’t just setting an example on the ice—they’re setting a standard for how sports venues and large event spaces can make a difference in their communities. This program proves that food waste can be transformed into an opportunity to feed those in need.

In February, Oilers forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins took the effort a step further by hosting a meet-and-greet event, where attendees were asked to bring a food bank donation. This kind of leadership highlights the importance of giving back and reinforces the idea that no good food should ever be wasted when people are going hungry.

Pushing for Change

While the Oilers are leading the charge, this kind of initiative should be mandatory in every city. Every arena, stadium, and event venue should have a food recovery plan to ensure surplus food is put to good use.

If a program like this can work at Rogers Place, it can work anywhere. Let’s spread the word and push for more arenas, restaurants, and event spaces to follow suit!

How You Can Help

If you’re inspired by this initiative, there are ways to make a difference in your own community:

• Support local food banks through donations or volunteering

• Advocate for food recovery programs in local businesses and venues

• Reduce food waste in your own home by planning meals and donating excess food

Let’s work together to ensure no meal goes to waste when there are people in need. 💙💪

#FoodForAll 🍛 #OilersGiveBack 💙 #EndFoodWaste ♻️ #HungerRelief 🍽️ #HockeyForGood 🏒 #CommunityMatters ❤️ #SupportLocalCharities 🙌 #NoFoodLeftBehind 🚛