Glean With Veggie Rescue

For Farmers

Got Extra Crops?

Don’t let good food go to waste. Veggie Rescue partners with local farms to harvest surplus produce and get it into the hands of people who need it most—quickly, safely, and at no cost to you.

Why Partner With Us?

Simple: You decide what and when we harvest.
Efficient: We bring trained volunteers, tools, and trucks.
Safe: We carry insurance and handle all liability.
Impactful: Your crops feed local families instead of going to waste.

Benefits for Farmers

Reduce waste while supporting your community.
Potential tax benefits for donated produce.
Positive recognition for your farm’s contribution.
Peace of mind knowing nothing goes to waste.

How It Works

You Contact Us – Tell us about your surplus or fields ready to glean.
We Organize – Our team assembles volunteers and equipment.
Harvest Happens – Produce is picked, packed, and transported.
Food Gets Shared – Nonprofits across Santa Barbara County put your crops to good use.

For Volunteers

Be Part of the Rescue!

Join us in rescuing fresh, local food straight from the fields! As a gleaning volunteer, you’ll help harvest fruits and vegetables that might otherwise go to waste and make sure they reach neighbors in need. No experience required—just a willing heart, a pair of hands, and a little time to give.

FAQ Accordion

1. How can I become a volunteer?

Getting started is easy! Visit our volunteer sign-up page on our website. We'll get you registered and into our system and then we will be in touch as opportuities come up.

2. What safety measures does Veggie Rescue have in place for volunteers?

Volunteer safety is our top priority. We provide comprehensive safety training, supply all necessary protective equipment, maintain clear protocols for food handling and transportation, and ensure experienced team leaders are present at every event. All volunteers receive safety briefings before each activity.

3. Are there age requirements for volunteering with Veggie Rescue?

Volunteers 16 and older can participate independently. Ages 14-15 are welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children under 14 can join family volunteer activities but cannot participate in food rescue operations for safety reasons.

4. What should I bring when I volunteer? How can I prepare?

Bring a water bottle, wear closed-toe shoes, and dress appropriately for outdoor work. We recommend bringing work gloves. Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and come ready to make a difference in our community!

5. What's the recommended attire for volunteering?

Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting dirty, closed-toe shoes (required), and dress in layers as you'll likely be working outdoors. Long pants are recommended for protection. Avoid loose jewelry or clothing that could be unsafe around vehicles or equipment.

6. Am I required to stay for the full duration of a volunteer session?

While we appreciate volunteers who can stay for the entire session, we understand schedules can be tight. Let your team leader know your availability when you arrive, and we'll work with your timeframe to make the most impact possible.

7. Do volunteer activities continue in bad weather?

We will cancel activities during severe weather conditions like thunderstorms, high winds, or dangerous driving conditions. We'll notify registered volunteers as early as possible if we need to cancel.

Contact Us

Be part of the solution. Together, we can reduce food waste, nourish our neighbors, and make the most of every harvest.

👉 Are you a farmer who is ready to partner? Contact Us Today at info@veggierescue.org

FAQ Accordion

1. How does Veggie Rescue determine if a glean will take place?

We work closely with each farm to evaluate timing, crop condition, and logistics. Our team looks at factors such as food quality, staff and volunteer availability, and delivery needs from our nonprofit partners. Together with the grower, we decide whether a glean makes sense and schedule it at a time that works best for the farm.

You can always reach out to us at info@veggierescue.org to talk through your specific situation.

Additionally, Veggie Rescue gratefully accepts donations of already-harvested crops. Bins for harvesting may be available upon request.

2. What steps does Veggie Rescue take to protect farmers and growers from liability during gleaning?

We properly train, supervise and hold liability coverage for all volunteers who glean with us. We are happy to provide a certificate of coverage upon request, and answer questions to help you decide if gleaning is right for you or your business. Please contact us at info@veggierescue.org to discuss.

Additionally, volunteers are required to sign a form releasing the grower/property owner of liability.

3. Where can I access the tax deduction form for donated produce?

Veggie Rescue provides documentation of every donation we receive. We track weight, type of donation, and date, and can provide both monthly reports and an annual letter for your records. Farmers can then work with their tax professional to apply the appropriate charitable deduction.

4. As a donor, am I responsible if something goes wrong with the food I give?

No. Under both federal (Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act) and California law, donors are not held liable for the condition of donated food, provided it is given in good faith and without gross negligence. Our role is to handle, store, and deliver your produce safely so it gets to local nonprofits and the people they serve.

You can read more about the Federal Emerson Good Samaritan act of 1996

Harvest More. Waste Less.