Photo Provided Lura Wilcoxen and Dennis Dye, Harvest of Hope drivers, on the 2 Million Pound Pickup Day.

The Washington County Harvest of Hope achieved a significant milestone on Feb. 26 by surpassing 2 million pounds of rescued and redistributed food since its founding in 2006.

Starting with a handful of volunteers, Harvest of Hope operates with more than 50 individuals using a refrigerated van to rescue surplus food from donors including Giant Eagle, Starbucks and Walmart.

The effort supports more than 40 local food pantries and agencies, ensuring nutritious food reaches those in need throughout the year.

Deliveries occur five days a week, 52 weeks a year.

Volunteers like Rick Hastings, Mark Nutter, Lura Wilcoxen and Dennis Dye play crucial roles in Harvest of Hope’s daily operations.

Their efforts on Feb. 26 included collecting and delivering essential items such as meat, baked goods, and produce to organizations like the Salvation Army, EVE and Marietta First Presbyterian Church.

Harvest of Hope’s commitment extends to partnerships with agencies such as Latrobe Street Mission, where excess food is rescued and redistributed promptly, benefiting organizations such as Daily Bread, Marietta Community Food Pantry and the Lowell Food Pantry.

This milestone reflects the dedication of the Harvest of Hope volunteers and the vision of its founder, Karen Kumpf.

It represents significant savings for Harvest of Hope clients who receive nutritious food at no cost.