High Desert Food & Farm Alliance

High Desert Food Farm Alliance “Grow & Give Food Donation Program”

During the 2016 growing season the High Desert Food & Farm Alliance was able to donate 9,236 pounds of local produce to the regional food bank, NeighborImpact, and the 43 food pantries that they service.  As part of their Grow & Give Program, HDFFA hosted booths at both the Northwest Crossing and Downtown Bend Farmers Markets.  In addition, HDFFA also piloted on-farm gleaning at Juniper Jungle Farm, where over 40 volunteers harvested 485 pounds of corn and 3,640 pounds of potatoes.  NeighborImpact, the regional food bank, worked alongside HDFFA staff and volunteers to assure that this produce reached pantry families at the peak of freshness.  Funds from the Schwemm Family Foundation contributed significantly to these efforts and the HDFFA much appreciates their support.

“The Grow and Give program not only helps assure that all Central Oregonians have access to local & healthy fresh food choices but mitigates food waste, gives gardeners and farmers somewhere to go with extra produce, and increases awareness of food access issues right here in our community.” – Jess Weiland