The Center for High Impact Philanthropy at the University of Pennsylvania has released the Food Funder Compass, a free, online guide to help United States donors channel their charitable dollars into organizations and models that make the biggest difference. 

The Food Funder Compass will help donors zero in on the most effective ways to reduce hunger; curb obesity; lessen waste, contaminants and emissions through sustainable agriculture; support local economies; improve conditions for workers; and strengthen access to food for those in need.

“There is so much donor interest in these issues, but it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where donations can really make a difference,” Katherina Rosqueta, founding executive director at the Center, said. “The Food Funder Compass addresses many food-related issues all at once and allows donors to get on the path to impact faster.”

Carra Cote-Ackah, the director for strategic partnerships and the Center’s project leader for this effort, says the online guide identifies key efforts and organizations that tackle multiple issues at once. 

“For example, urban gardening not only addresses urban blight but also serves as a source of nutritious local food,” she said. “Food hubs can strengthen local economies while also reducing emissions that come from transporting food from outside the region.”

According to the report, more than 33 million adults and 16 million children live in food-insecure households, where members do not always know where they will find their next meal.  The guide also says nearly 30 million Americans live more than one mile from a supermarket yet lack adequate transportation, so they rely on convenience stores for supplies.  Estimates suggest that a 15 percent reduction in waste throughout the food-supply chain could feed as many as 25 million more people.

Founded in 2006, the Center for High Impact Philanthropy is an authority for donors seeking to maximize the social impact of charitable funds.  The Center helps move money to do more good through independent analysis, advice and thought leadership.