Just because it’s unsellable doesn’t mean it’s inconsumable. Far from it, judging by the life work of John van Hengel.

Van Hengel spent the last 38 years of his life proving this concept again and again. His efforts sprouted a global food-supply network that serves those most in need. And it has its roots right here in Phoenix.

Here’s a bit of dog-pound math. Maricopa County Animal Care and Control has two shelters – one in west Phoenix and one in Mesa. Both rely on a total of some 400 volunteers to help care for and find homes for the nearly 56,000 dogs and cats taken in every year.