By Shelby Tuttle
On Monday, April 28, Pita Jungle presented Arizona-based nonprofit Waste Not with a donation for $8,598. The company hosted a fundraiser for the organization on March 29, National Pita Day, in which it donated one dollar for every pita sandwich sold at participating locations across Arizona. Additional funds were raised through the return of the restaurant’s popular “Empty Bowls” fundraiser in December 2024. During the Empty Bowls event, guests purchased hand-crafted bowls — created by artists from the Arizona Clay Association — for $20, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Waste Not. Waste Not works to create sustainable food systems that nourish people and protect the planet — an effort that aligns with Pita Jungle’s commitment to healthy living and community support.
Pita Jungle’s co-founder, Bassel Osmani, expressed his excitement ahead of the fundraiser’s kickoff.
“We’re thrilled to once again join forces with Waste Not,” he said. “In continuation with our multi-years collaboration with Waste Not and thus consolidating our support in aiding the suppression of food insecurity, Pita Jungle commits to contribute proceeds from our National Pita Day promotion to support their meaningful mission.”
Tonia Smith, development manager at Waste Not, remarked, “Pita Jungle has been an incredible partner to Waste Not for more than a decade,” says Tonia Smith, Development Manager at Waste Not. “Their support helps ensure that thousands of Arizonans facing hunger receive nourishing meals through our programs. Arizona has the worst overall food waste in the country while nearly one million people in our state experience food insecurity. Partnerships like this are essential to raising awareness, rescuing more food, and creating a lasting impact for both people and the planet.”
To learn more about Pita Jungle or to find a location near you, visit www.pitajungle.com or follow them on social media @pitajungle.
