Food insecurity continues to rise in Southern Nevada, impacting nearly 1 in 6 residents and more than 1 in 5 children. As families face growing challenges accessing nutritious meals, The Just One Project, in partnership with The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, is helping to close the gap—one rescued meal at a time.
As recently featured on 8 News Now, the Food Rescue Alliance is repurposing surplus food from large events into hundreds of fresh, ready-to-eat meals distributed directly to those in need across the Las Vegas Valley.
From Excess to Essential
Each week, The Just One Project collects and repackages leftover food from conventions, expos, and special events at The Venetian. These are not basic leftovers—they’re high-quality meals including hot breakfasts, salads, gourmet pastries, and proteins like chicken and steak.
“With the help of our volunteers and community partners, we’re able to repurpose surplus food at scale and get it to families fast,” says Mimi Diebold, Director of Special Projects at The Just One Project.
The urgency of the process is key. “Our turnaround is within two hours—from the end of an event to a family’s table,” adds Joshua Mike, TJOP’s Food Rescue Manager. “That speed is what preserves freshness, quality, and safety.”
Fast Action, Big Impact
Just one morning’s pickup can yield over 700 pounds of food, providing enough to serve 500 families comfortably—with enough for seconds. Once repackaged, meals are delivered to seniors, families, shelters, and care centers throughout the valley.
Volunteers like Larraine Leisure are integral to the process, helping with everything from packaging to delivery. “It lifts my spirits to be able to come here and help other people,” she says. “Even if someone can’t communicate with words, their smile tells me they’re thankful.”
Over 400,000 Meals Delivered
Since launching in 2023, the Food Rescue Alliance has already delivered more than 400,000 meals—meals that would have otherwise gone to waste.
“When you realize how many Nevadans are unsure where their next meal is coming from, this work becomes urgent,” Diebold emphasizes. “This partnership is about turning waste into a resource—and making sure that food goes where it’s needed most.”
A Broader Mission
The Food Rescue Alliance is just one of several ways The Just One Project is working to combat food insecurity in Southern Nevada. From mobile markets to emergency grocery delivery and senior outreach, our programs provide food, connection, and support—because food is medicine, and community is everything.
To learn more about our programs or to get involved, visit thejustoneproject.org/food-programs.
As seen on 8 News Now – click here to view the full story and video coverage.
