A folding tray cart and method for same, the folding tray cart comprises a collapsible framework pivotally supporting one or more sets of split shelves, each split shelf comprises a pair of half shelves, the folding tray cart moves between an first open operating position with the respective sets of split shelves being held in spaced-apart, stacked, horizontal orientation within the collapsible framework and a second closed, vertical orientation where the collapsible framework is collapsed in manner that places each half shelf pair into an inverted V shape configuration; wherein inner edges of the half shelf pairs are made from soft resilient compressible material so that if a portion of a cart operator's body is caught between a closing gap formed between the inner edges, the inner edges will temporarily deform in a manner to prevent injury to the portion.