Some gleanings will have more lead time than others. In some cases, you may only have a day or two notice. It is always best to prepare as far in advance as possible, but be flexible when a gleaning is short notice..
Before opening the second location in the metro area, much of the donated produce in Tifton came from warehouse culls. This is similarly simple to a market recovery, because it has already been harvested and just needs the planning and volunteers to pick up and distribute it out..
There are several different gleaning approaches you can take when recovering the food properly and safely. U-pick gleaning can be extremely detailed orientated, as the volunteers have to follow safety guidelines and be careful to only pick rows the farmer said was okay to pick..
SoSA works directly with farmers to provide gleaning opportunities to our volunteers and allow them to harvest crops themselves. Food recovery at markets has slowly gained traction in Tifton, however farms remained the main source of gleaned produce and “grow-a row” programs..
Agencies are the third side of the triangle of gleaning. Agencies are the places where gleaned food is distributed to those who are in need. Agencies can take a variety of forms. The goal is to get the produce onto the tables of hungry people as quickly and fresh as possible..
Farmers are foundational to the gleaning network. Growers must know that gleaning operations are not trying to “take advantage” of them, or do any harm to their crops, land, or business. It is essential that they understand that we have their interests at heart, as well as the needs of the hungry in our communities..
Volunteers represent one side of the triangle. Like most gleaning programs, the SoSA Gleaning Network depends on volunteers willing to give their time. Many people are looking for the opportunity to give back to the community..