Surrey and White Rock residents can donate surplus fruit or vegetables through Sources’ Community Harvest Program to fight hunger and reduce food waste.
Local Program Turns Surplus Produce into Community Support
A Surrey-based initiative is calling on residents with backyard fruit trees, gardens, or small farms to help fight hunger in the region. Sources Community Resources Society’s Community Harvest Program, active since 2019, connects people with excess produce to local food banks and charities, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Reducing Waste and Feeding Families
The program—also known as “gleaning”—focuses on collecting surplus or unharvested produce across White Rock, South Surrey, Delta, and nearby areas.
“Many people don’t realize how valuable their excess fruit and vegetables can be,” said Carrie Belanger, Sources’ food security manager. “We connect people who have extra with those who need it most, reducing waste, supporting healthy eating, and building a stronger community.”
How the Harvest Works
Once a resident registers a tree or crop, Sources coordinates the harvest. The process includes scheduling a date, sending a team of trained and vetted volunteers, and providing full insurance and equipment for the pick. Donors are asked to contact Sources about a week before the produce ripens.
Sharing the Harvest
The collected produce is split into three equal portions: one for the donor, one for the volunteers, and one for Sources’ food banks or other local charities.
“The fresh fruit and vegetables we receive through this program are a tremendous gift,” said Belanger. “They allow us to provide nutritious, seasonal options for families relying on our food banks.”
How to Get Involved
Residents can register their fruit trees, vegetable gardens, or farm crops by visiting sourcesbc.ca, calling 672-968-1479, or emailing foodhub@sourcesbc.ca. Volunteer opportunities are also available for those who want to help with harvesting.
