“Nothing is more inspiring than students making an impact in their community. It’s a good reminder that our future is in good hands.”
-Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table
For Anthony Livelli, giving back has always been part of growing up. The 15-year-old East Hanover resident and Seton Hall Prep sophomore balances school, family, friends, and a busy soccer schedule, including varsity soccer and an MLS NEXT team. Yet he still makes time for service. Through Table to Table’s I-Rescue App, Anthony helps the New Jersey nonprofit rescue fresh, nutritious food that might otherwise go to waste and deliver it to neighbors facing food insecurity. What began as a way to fulfill school service hours has become something more—a lesson in how one person’s time can make a meaningful difference.
How did you hear about Table to Table’s I-Rescue App?
I learned about Table to Table because they helped with food drives at my elementary school, Our Lady of the Lake. During my freshman year at Seton Hall Prep, my Theology teacher, Mrs. Sorgi, gave us different options for earning service hours, and Table to Table was one of them. I downloaded the app, and it was an easy way to earn hours while doing something helpful.
What about the App did you like?
It’s really easy to use. You can see the rescue, how far it is, when you need to be there, and where you're dropping off. When you're leaving, you click “Start Rescue,” and when you arrive, you click “I Am Here.” It’s all in the app.
How did you feel after completing your first rescue?
It feels good knowing that the food didn't just get thrown away. It went to people who could use it. What surprised me most was seeing how many different people are involved. The restaurant or store that donates, someone picks it up, and then it’s brought to a place where people need it. It's nice to be part of that.
How have your thoughts about food waste changed since you started working with Table to Table?
I definitely think about food waste more now. Before, I didn't really think about what happens to leftover food from restaurants or events. Now I think about how food that might get thrown away could still be useful to someone else.
What is your favorite part about doing drop-offs with your family?
My favorite part is spending time with my mom while we're doing something good for someone else. It's nice to see where the food is going instead of doing the service and not knowing what happens afterward; it’s all important work.
What advice would you give other students who may be interested in making an impact in their community and earning service hours?
Find something that fits your schedule that you enjoy. The I-Rescue App makes it easy because you can choose rescues based on your availability and see what’s close by. I started because I needed service hours, but once you do a rescue and see where the food goes, you realize you're doing much more than just getting hours. You’re really helping people.
https://tabletotable.org/