Question 1

What is One Tree and what does it do?

Accepted Answer

One Tree is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses crowdfunding-powered letter campaigns to petition major grocery retailers like Walmart, Kroger, Target, Publix, Aldi, and Costco to donate their safe near-expired surplus food instead of throwing it away. Our mission is to turn retail food waste into meals for the poorest of the poor.

Question 2

How does the letter campaign work?

Accepted Answer

We provide pre-written letter templates for each major retailer. Supporters download these letters, personalize them, and send them to corporate executives. When thousands of letters arrive advocating for food donation, retailers take notice. This crowdfunding of voices creates real pressure for change.

Question 3

Is food donation legal for retailers?

Accepted Answer

Yes! The Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act (1996) provides federal liability protection to food donors. It states that a person shall not be subject to civil or criminal liability from the nature, age, or condition of apparently wholesome food donated in good faith. Retailers have no legal excuse not to donate.

Question 4

How much food is wasted by retailers each year?

Accepted Answer

According to ReFED and USDA data, approximately 73.9 million tons of surplus food is generated annually in the United States, with retail food waste accounting for billions of pounds. About 85% of this surplus ends up as waste rather than donation, despite being perfectly safe to eat.

Question 5

Who was Uncle Barney and what is The Barn?

Accepted Answer

Barney Welch, known as Uncle Barney, founded The Barn food pantry in 1981 after answering a call from the Missionaries of Charity in the South Bronx. The Barn has grown to serve thousands of families with 150+ volunteers rescuing 8+ tons of food weekly. One Tree was founded by his grandson Peter Dimaira to multiply this legacy nationally.

Question 6

How can I get involved with One Tree?

Accepted Answer

You can get involved by: 1) Downloading and sending our letter templates to retailers, 2) Donating to support our campaigns, 3) Volunteering your time, 4) Sharing our mission on social media, or 5) Praying for our success. Every action helps turn food waste into meals.

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