How Can We Help?
Written by Jordyn Egbert, Fundraising and Development Specialist VISTA. Updated by Jeanie Neumann, Fundraising and Development Specialist VISTA.
The team and volunteers at City Fruit’s Harvest Program harvest roughly 25,000 to 40,000 pounds of fruit annually and redistribute this quality, local fruit throughout Seattle so it can be shared with the community. Harvesting produce from public and private fruit trees reduces food waste and increases access to hyper-local, organic fruit. Before City Fruit’s Harvest Program, extra fruit from many local fruit trees went unharvested, and nutritious food that could have been enjoyed throughout the community was left to rot on trees or on the ground. This can also lead to pest infestations and pedestrian hazards. City Fruit’s work also helps to prevent this.
The City Fruit Harvest Team consists of a Harvest Program Coordinator, Seasonal Harvesters, and interns from either the Teens in Public Service (TiPS) or the University of Washington. During Seattle’s harvest season from July to November, the Harvest Team gleans fruit from private fruit trees and public orchards across Seattle. Harvested fruit includes cherries, pears, figs, grapes, apples, quince, persimmons, berries, and plums.
All harvested fruit is divided into different categories based on its quality. Market-ready fruit is distributed directly to food banks, City Fruit’s Fruit-For-All free fruit farm stands, and community partners, which include local elementary schools. Fruit that is windfallen, bruised, or has pest damage is distributed to meal programs (see Utilizing Windfallen, Bruised, or Pest Damaged Fruit) and local cideries and bakeries. Sale of seconds produce helps City Fruit fund its programming. With a variety of distribution partners, City Fruit provides quality, local fruit to the community, while reducing food waste.
