Donate extra produce to Linn-Benton Food Share!

Rising food and gas prices are putting real strain on household budgets. You can help support neighbors who may be struggling by contributing to Linn Benton Food Share’s mission to eliminate hunger in Linn and Benton counties. OSU Extension partners with communities to expand access to healthy, affordable food through education, collaboration, and local food initiatives. In Linn and Benton counties, the Family and Community Health and Master Gardener programs work together on “Grow a Row,” connecting individuals and families with resources that support food security, nutrition, and resilience.

One simple way to help is by growing extra in your home garden, and donating surplus produce to local pantries, gleaning groups, or community meal sites. These donations play an important role in reducing food insecurity in our community.

Fresh, unprocessed produce and non-perishable foods are accepted during open pantry hours. To find your nearest pantry and donation times, visit: https://communityservices.us/linn-benton-food-share/

Linn Benton Food Share donation guidelines:

• No homemade items
• No animal products, includes backyard eggs
• No windfall produce, includes any fruit found on the ground
• No processed produce, leave whole and fresh; gently brush off dirt or rinse clean

Gleaning programs may also be able to help harvest, pick up, and quickly distribute produce. These nonprofit groups are run by and for low-income community members. For more information, contact the Linn-Benton Food Share gleaning coordinator at 541-758-2645.