Field Gleaning

At Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, we seek healthy food through all the channels available to us. The excess production of area farms is a rich source of fresh, healthy produce. Our Field Gleaning program connects farmers who have excess crops with people who need fresh produce.

The idea is simple. Farmers call us when they have extra crops. We bring a farmer-trained volunteer crew, gather the produce, and distribute it to people in need in our seven-county area.

Volunteer as a Gleaner

Anyone can volunteer at a Field Gleaning. Field work is a wonderful way to connect, and you can easily make a big difference for our less fortunate neighbors.Sign up here to volunteer as a Gleaner! 

Glean as a Group

Organize your coworkers, place of worship, or friends to glean together. To schedule a group event, please complete an application, located on the right side of this page. 

Age Policy

Our Age Policy is designed to ensure that we have an able group of gleaners, while also allowing young children the opportunity to experience gleaning.

Age 6 and under: 1 adult per child

Age 7 to 11: 1 adult per group of 3 children

Age 12 to 18: 1 adult per group of 10

For Farmers

Become a partner in hunger relief by hosting a Field Gleaning. Little of your time is required, and we treat your land with respect and care. Bonus: your donation is tax deductible.

If you want gleaners to visit your farm, contact Lindsay at  919-250-0043 or localproduce at foodshuttle.org. 

Why do we do this?

Did you know this area’s low income communities have some of the highest rates of obesity and chronic disease in the country? They also have the most limited access to healthy, fresh foods. By participating in a Field Gleaning, you provide them with access to fresh, nutritious food.

Facts & Figures

• Studies show a strong link between food insecurity and obesity and chronic illness. Many believe this is due in part to access and cost barriers to fruits and vegetables among the food insecure.
• Approximately 30.3 percent of children ages 6 to 11 are overweight and 15.3 percent are obese. (American Obesity Association, 2009)
• At 20.3% in 2009, NC ranks second highest in the nation for food insecurity in children under age 5. (Feeding America, 2009)