Fresh Produce Preservation Project
The Fresh Produce Preservation Project (FPPP), begun in 2010, complements the Gathering’s mission to feed the hungry with respect and dignity. This seasonal project (August - November) collects donations of fresh fruits and vegetables from area farmers and other food sources. The produce is preserved by canning or freezing for use in Gathering winter meals when fresh produce is not as available. By increasing the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables in our meals, we increase the nutritional value and food options available to our guests.
67% of Milwaukee residents do not consume the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables daily.
Questions? Contact us! soulfood@thegatheringwis.org or call (414) 272-4122
Are you a farmer or organization interested in donating fresh produce to The Gathering?
Please call our office at (414) 272-4122 or email soulfood@thegathering.org. If you would like to volunteer with the FPPP check out our Volunteer page or call our office at the above phone number.
TOTAL PRODUCE DONATIONS FOR 2023
Thanks to donations from local farms and the hard work of our FPPP volunteers, we were able to process and preserve a literal ton of fresh produce for our Gathering meals!
240 lbs of corn
140 lbs of onions
80 lbs of green beans
160 lbs. bell peppers
100 lbs of tomatoes
160 lbs of poblano peppers
160 lbs of pears
100 lbs of watermelon
400 lbs of apples
260 lbs of squash
180 lbs of cabbage
20 lbs of asparagus
“The FPPP provided a fun and safe environment to volunteer! It was very welcoming.”
“I learned quite a lot about food preservation from the project – specifically, canning and freezing.”
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