Gleaning results in Vernon.

The Salvation Army Gleaning program promotes produce sharing in the Vernon community while reducing waste.   Since June 2nd, 9240 lbs. of fresh produce has been donated from local farmers!

The project harvests and distributes fresh fruits and vegetables that would otherwise go to waste.  Produce is picked by volunteer gleaners and then distributed to community agencies.  Several groups benefit from this program such as, Upper Room Mission, First Nations Friendship Centre, prenatal and daycare programs and North Okanagan Family Resource Centre.

Produce is split on a one-third basis between the volunteer pickers, homeowners, and the community agencies.  All of the produce picked remains in the local community.

The project has several goals, including:  

• Minimize fruit and vegetable waste
• Community involvement
• Promote local food production
• Help people gain access to food
• Public awareness of project
• Encourage consumption of fresh produce
• Bring community closer together

The program has been running very successfully and Ministries Director David MacBain and Monique Mazereeuw are hoping to expand their volunteer and donor base.

For more information feel free to contact Monique at 250.307.7770 or SAgleaning@live.ca