This is a self-help program designed for low-income senior citizens and disabled individuals. It utilizes "gleaning," the gathering and sharing of crops that remain in the fields after harvest. This program provides food for senior and disabled individuals who meet the income requirements and effectively uses surplus food that would otherwise be discarded.

It also enables seniors to meet and work with their peers. Gleaning coordinators help organize volunteers to go pick the crops. The gleaned food is then bagged and distributed to approximately 2,300 members at distribution sites in Maricopa County from Scottsdale to Gila Bend. People with vegetable gardens also donate food to the Food Bank for this and other programs.

Volunteers or "gleaners" 55 years and older share in both the work and the benefits of this program. Gleaners, seniors and disabled persons receive fresh produce, TEFAP and donated foods each week. In addition to receiving food, participants are able to socialize and work together to help others.

There is an annual membership fee of $30 per person and volunteer gleaners are covered by liability insurance.

For more information, please contact us at (602) 242-3663.

Westside Location: 13050 W. Elm St, Surpise, AZ 85374

Days of Operation: Monday-Friday

Items Needed:
None