How it Works

How It Works

Plates Aplenty connects prepared surplus meals with local organizations that can use them—quickly, safely, and easily.

1. Food Available? Post It.

Who it’s for:
Caterers, restaurants, event planners, corporate kitchens, and generous hosts.

What to do:

• Log in and post details about your available food
  
  

• Include pickup window, portion estimate, and packaging type
  
  

• Our platform instantly shares that info with local nonprofits
  
  

Bonus: We’ll guide you through basic food safety steps to keep donations compliant and high-quality.

2. Get Matched in Real Time

Who it’s for:
Shelters, food pantries, community orgs, and mutual aid groups.

What happens:

• You’ll be alerted when food becomes available nearby
  
  

• You can claim a pickup with just one click
  
  

• Optional: Filter by food type, dietary needs, pickup hours, etc.
  
  

Coming soon: volunteer delivery coordination and route tools.

3. Coordinate Pickup & Reduce Waste

Once matched:

• Donors and recipients confirm the pickup details
  
  

• Food is transported safely and used promptly
  
  

• You help prevent waste and feed the community—no middleman required
  
  

Behind the Scenes

Our platform uses:

• Smart matching algorithms
  
  

• Location-aware notifications
  
  

• Built-in safety best practices
  
  

• Transparent activity logs for all users
  
  

We're starting with a pilot in Atlanta, GA—but built to grow.

Ready to Join?

Choose the path that fits you:

• Give food
  
  

• Receive food
  
  

• Partner with us