Last day in Ireland and we got to say goodbye by visiting one of the most special companies we’ve seen so far. Foodcloud is, in their own words, a non-profit “food bank.” They also work for sustainable causes and ultimately to provide food for people and lessen food waste. I learned today that over 1/3 of the food produced today is goes to waste and yet we are still dealing with starvation around the world, which is disheartening. But the charity work that Foodcloud does is not. I like the way they phrased it: they work in order to become obsolete. Hopefully one day, an organization like them will no longer be needed in the world.

They are part of the Irish community by having 3 bases in Ireland and also connecting with other various grocery stores and local charities to do their work. I think the mindset of loving the cause and working for the problem to no longer be a problem anymore is what makes them a successful organization. Although they admitted the pay is low in charity organizations, it is their interest in their jobs that keeps them motivated and working successfully to provide food for people.

The most innovative part of their business model that I observed is having a section for European Union donated foods. I thought that was a really interesting part of their business that keeps them connected with the rest of the world and especially Europe.

I was thinking a lot about last moments and meaningful lives and actions today because I visited the Kilmainham Jail. There’s always something sinister about visiting jails and this time it was no different, especially when we were taken to the execution courtyard. It calmed me to know, however, that the people who may have suffered and lived their final moments there were political pioneers for the independence of Ireland and changed the course of history. They did what they had to do to make their lives mean something that is beyond them and I think this is also what Foodcloud’s mission is. And I hold that as an incredibly honorable thing that I’ve witnessed in Ireland over and over again.

I’m off to dinner now (thanks CAPA!) and I’m ready to go home but I’m still conscious I have to enjoy every last moment here.

Good night, Ireland. I’ll keep my teary goodbyes for tomorrow. See you then.