750 lbs of corn harvested for the RI Food Bank

GleaningA day after we got a call from Warren Cook about an overabundance of corn at Cook’s Valley Farm, a volunteer gleaning crew trekked out to Wrentham to pick some ears and deliver them to the RI Food Bank. Warren showed them the patch and in just two hours, Lindsay and Emilia harvested 750 lbs!

Lindsay is our food systems intern and she’s been analyzing the distribution of food as it travels from local farms to eaters. Her project has also highlighed the food waste in local vs. industrial food systems. There’s a lot of waste in both, but local food systems present an opportunity for people to put extra food to good use while it’s still super fresh.

Volunteer! At this time of year there’s plenty to be gleaned at most farms, but most farmers don’t have the time to harvest and drive to the Food Bank themselves. Gather some friends, family and a truck for a gleaning day on a farm, and help make a farm-to-food-bank connection that will address local hunger! Local farms are an important resource in making sure everyone can enjoy the seasonal bounty. E-mail Lindsay for some leads or talk to your favorite farmer.

Also, consider that now is a great time to can, freeze and pickle! It won’t be summer forever. So take advantage of the wealth of tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, cukes and corn we’re currently amidst!