VOLUNTEER

​​Lend a hand in getting healthy food from farms to families

​Farming is unpredictable. Weather, pests, and market conditions all make growing food an imprecise science, so farmers plant extra to ensure they will have enough produce to sell and distribute throughout the year. When crops flourish, farmers often do not have the time or labor to harvest or sell everything—and end up with a surplus.

Boston Area Gleaners organizes volunteers to harvest, or glean, surplus crops, and pack them for donation to food banks, pantries, community kitchens, and other food access initiatives. The Gleaners also accept post-harvest donations of produce from farmers and food distributors. A wide network of donating farms across Eastern Massachusetts makes this work possible, including both commercial farmers and farms growing specifically for communities where food access is limited.

Gleaning is most active from early summer through late fall (the farming season) but volunteers can help sort and pack produce throughout the winter and spring when possible.
​
Wondering what it looks like to volunteer with the Gleaners, or what to bring with you on a trip? Review our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more!

Vertical Divider

NEW VOLUNTEERS

CREATE A VOLUNTEER ACCOUNT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

RETURNING VOLUNTEERS

UPCOMING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

MY VOLUNTEER PROFILE PAGE

Interested in volunteering as a group? Fill out our 2025 Group Trip Interest Form!

Vertical Divider

---

​If you have further questions, feel free to contact us:

Email us

or call (781) 819-0116