Sources Community Resource Society

The Sources food security programs envisions a community that shares its excess fresh food with others who might otherwise go without it. As we watch a harvest journey from being picked off a tree to being served with a family meal, we have reduced food wastage and created a healthier community for all.  

Community Harvest Volunteers are passionate about reducing food waste and addressing hunger.  Community Harvest Volunteers commit a minimum of twice a month (seasonally) in harvesting fresh food from homes, city property and farms that would otherwise go to waste.  Of the gleaned harvest, one-third respectively is given to the home-owners, volunteers and community organizations such as the local Food Bank or meal programs. 

To be successful, Community Harvest Volunteers should have:

• Enthusiasm and passion for addressing hunger and food waste.
• Safety-oriented: follow safety instructions from your team lead and collaborate with a team.
• Respect for homeowners’ property and privacy; represent Sources in a professional way.
• Comfortable working outside.
• A truck capable of transporting boxes of produce, ladders and fruit pickers is an asset.
• Volunteers driving the Sources’ Food Truck must have a valid Class 5 driver’s license and a clean Driver’s Record (if applicable).
• Physically fit and able to lift heavy boxes weighing a minimum of 20 lbs.
• Willingness to complete a criminal record check and waiver.
• You must be aged 16 or older to volunteer without adult supervision.  Families are welcome!

Tasks include:

• Pick up supplies from designated locations as required.
• Attend a brief on-location safety orientation prior to pick.
• Pick fruit.
• Deliver fruit to designated locations as needed.
• Return supplies to designated locations as required.
• Savor fresh produce with friends and family when you return home.

Time Commitment: 

• Minimum of 2 picks/month, each taking approximately 2-3 hours each. 
• The picking season runs from June to November; weather-dependent.

Additional Information: Bring a reusable water bottle, snack, hat, and sunscreen. Wear closed toe shoes for safety.  We harvest even during the rain so please be weather-wary and dress appropriately.

What are the benefits?

Volunteers with the Community Harvest program have the rewarding opportunity in effecting change in a way that is hands-on and immediate.  You will support local home-owners/renters and farmers in nurturing their fruit trees to encourage further growth.  You will be addressing food insecurity by ensuring fresh produce is delivered to people who use the Food Bank.  You will also be PART OF THE ACTION in reducing food waste to fight climate change.  

The benefits don’t stop there.  This is an opportunity to learn more about your local community’s commitment to reducing food waste, and how food systems are affected by the seasonality of locally grown produce.  Of course, you take home a portion of the produce harvested to enjoy with friends and family.