In the heart of California, an unassuming office building in Valencia serves as the operational hub for Every Day Action, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating food waste within the entertainment industry. This group redirects gourmet meals from film and television sets to those in need across Los Angeles. Their efforts exemplify how creative industries can address social issues like hunger and homelessness by repurposing excess resources. Founded five years ago by two assistant directors disturbed by widespread food wastage, Every Day Action has significantly grown its impact, delivering tens of thousands of meals annually.

The seeds of this initiative were planted when Samantha Luu, one of the founders, observed the stark contrast between lavish catering on set and the nearby homeless population. Partnering with Hillary Cohen, they devised a solution to safely redistribute uneaten food. Productions provide call sheets detailing meal schedules, enabling drivers to collect donations efficiently without disrupting filming. Liability concerns are mitigated through agreements signed between Every Day Action and studios, ensuring all parties adhere to health regulations.

Every Day Action's "reallocators" traverse vast distances daily, covering areas such as Santa Clarita to San Pedro. In 2024 alone, the organization facilitated the delivery of approximately 90,000 meals—a testament to their growing influence. However, challenges persist amidst a slowdown in local production activities. With fewer shows operating simultaneously, the demand for supplemental income among industry workers has surged, leading to increased participation in driving roles offered by the nonprofit. Despite these hurdles, Every Day Action continues expanding its reach beyond traditional sets into corporate environments and special events.

Arun Goswami embodies the spirit of this mission. Formerly associated with NCIS: Los Angeles as both a background actor and crew member, he now dedicates his time to transporting surplus meals to shelters like Bridge to Home in Santa Clarita. Reflecting on the quality of food distributed—ranging from exquisite noodles to flavorful curries—Goswami emphasizes the dignity inherent in providing everyone access to fine dining experiences. As he contemplates further education in finance, his commitment remains steadfast: ensuring that no deserving individual goes without a nourishing meal.

Through innovative strategies and unwavering dedication, Every Day Action not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters meaningful connections within communities touched by their work. The organization's adaptability ensures continued relevance regardless of fluctuations within the entertainment sector, proving that even amid uncertainty, compassion and resourcefulness can drive lasting change.