Where to Get Free Fruit and Vegetables
Getting free fruit and vegetables can be a great way to save money on groceries and eating healthier. Here are a few ideas for where to get free produce:
Community Gardens
Community gardens can be a great source of free produce. Some give away their extra harvests to people in the community who may not have access to fresh produce. Check your local area for any community gardens and ask about their donation policies.
Gleaning Opportunities
Gleaning is the practice of gathering free produce from farms and other growing spaces. Large-scale fruit and vegetable farms sometimes have excess produce that they don’t have the resources to harvest, which they are happy to give away. Check websites like the Gleaning Network and Ample Harvest to find out what gleaning opportunities are available near you.
Food Banks and Soup Kitchens
Food banks and soup kitchens can be a great place to get free produce. Many food banks receive excess produce from local businesses and farms. Check with your local food bank to see what fruits and vegetables they have available.
Local Farmers Markets
Many farmers markets will have free produce that is donated from local farms. Ask the vendors if they have any free produce available.
Harvesting Wild Plants
Some wild plants, such as dandelions, can be a great source of free fruit and vegetables. Make sure you know what plants are safe to eat before you harvest!
Grow Your Own
Growing your own food is a great way to get free produce. Plant a few fruits and vegetables in your garden and enjoy the fruits of your labor all season long!
Getting free produce is a great way to save money and eat healthier. Try these tips to get your hands on some delicious, high-quality fruit and vegetables!
