Preventing food waste is a top priority for the Harry Chapin Food Bank of SWFL

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, (WINK) — According to the USDA, 30-40% of the nation's food supply is wasted every year. With many hungry families in Southwest Florida, rescuing that food is a top priority for the Harry Chapin Food Bank and its partners.

Before the Costco at Gulf Coast Town Center even opens, local food pantries are already picking up food the stores no longer want to sell.

"We've all seen the phenomenon when you're in the store of that last lonely can of green beans that's a week older than all the others, and no one's going to buy it," said Richard Leber of the Harry Chapin Food Bank.

Muffins, fruits, vegetables, and even pallets of milk with a best buy date of March 20 are part of the day's big haul. This oversized carton of milk is sure to make one family's day.

About ten minutes away at Interfaith Charities in San Carlos Park, the milk is unloaded, stored in coolers, and just minutes later, boxed and handed off to Lauri, a mom with two kids at home. She said getting milk like this is heaven.

"We hate the idea. Retailers hate the idea of throwing away perfectly good food. This is a way of rescuing it and putting it to good use," said Leber.

For more information on the Harry Chapin Food Bank and its partners, visit their website.