Feeding the Hungry at the Alhambra Farmers Market

Every Sunday morning at the Alhambra Farmers Market, the community comes together to buy the freshest produce and support local farmers. Ever wonder what happens to all of that ripe produce at the end of the day? As farmers pack up their stands, they are often forced to toss fruits and vegetables that are too perishable to keep until the next market. But soon, thanks to Food Forward’s Farmers Market Recovery Program, vendors at the Alhambra Farmers Market will have an easy way to donate these healthy fruits and vegetables to those in need.

On November 22nd, Food Forward will be launching the 17th market in its Farmers Market Recovery Program at the Alhambra Farmers Market. The Farmers Market Recovery Program has collected 930,000 pounds since 2012 and helps to provide fresh produce to 45 agencies across LA and Ventura counties. While food recovery is new to the Alhambra market, Food Forward has helped to reduce food waste throughout Los Angeles since 2009, collecting over 13 million pounds since inception. Beginning with a backyard harvest program, Food Forward has now grown to include gleaning programs at 16 farmers markets and a large scale recovery program at the Downtown Los Angeles Wholesale Produce Market.

To expand Food Forward’s impact in the San Gabriel Valley and feed even more people in the community, dedicated volunteers are needed to ensure that fresh fruits and vegetables do not go to waste. Food Forward volunteers meet at the markets each week, distribute boxes to vendors wishing to donate and then collect and weigh the boxes of full produce. Volunteers must be at least 12 to participate and any volunteer under 16 must have a parent/guardian along as well.

If you are interested in getting involved, sign up for an event at www.foodforward.org. If you are interested in an ongoing leadership volunteer opportunity, consider attending our Glean Team Leader Training on November 7th in San Marino. Farmers Market GTLs commit to coordinating volunteers and overseeing the logistics of a farmers market glean once a month. Or, if you know of any food pantries or direct service agencies in Alhambra or surrounding communities that could use fresh produce please send their information to fmrecovery@foodforward.org.

To learn more about Food Forward or sign up for an event, go to www.foodforward.org

Contact: Laura Jellum, Volunteer Manager, 818-764-1022 x2, volunteer@foodforward.org