Rescuing Nature's Bounty

Food for Thought

Dear (Contact First Name),

Have you ever seen beautiful fruit fallen from a tree simply because no one was willing or able to pick it? It happens all across our county for a variety of reasons, but GleanSLO is determined to change all that.

GleanSLO unites farmers, community volunteers, backyard gardeners, health advocates and food providers to harvest and distribute excess produce through the Food Bank to some of the

1 in 6 residents in the county whom our programs help. In 2012, GleanSLO rescued 50 tons of fresh local produce! Each pound was the freshest and finest money could buy and we didn't have to buy it! We didn't have to transport it into our county burning fossil fuels and harming the environment. Families, youth groups, schools, retired folks, and people from all walks of life gathered as volunteers to work close to the land, harvesting, laughing, and knowing that they were helping their neighbors. Carolyn Eicher, GleanSLO Coordinator, says "Through gleaning the community comes together in a spirit of giving - gleaners volunteering their time and farmers donating their crops. In the end, everyone leaves with an appreciation for our food, the farmers, and the abundance around us."

Of course, there are costs involved with GleanSLO. Volunteers do almost all the work, but there are support costs. We need to transport, store, and distribute the fresh produce to those who would not otherwise have access to it. You can help us continue to develop with your donation, either by mail or online with a note "GleanSLO" indicated.

Spring is in the air, and already we are harvesting citrus, avocados, and kiwis. We hope to double the amount we gleaned last year. With your help, we can do it.

Big Hearts Offered Big Rewards

During the month of February the Food Bank partnered with the Food 4 Less in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles and Atascadero for the 5th Annual Have A Heart Food Drive. Our generous community raised $18,400. Food 4 Less has contributed to the total bringing it to an amazing $20,000! This donation will allow us to provide an incredible $200,000 worth of food. With 44,000 SLO County residents in need, your heartfelt contributions bring us one step closer to achieving the Food Bank's mission to ensure that no one in our county goes hungry.

Summer Feeding

The Lovin' Lunchbox program is rolling south thanks to our new partnership with the Oceano Boys and Girls Club. This program will deliver healthy breakfast, lunch and snacks to children during the summer. The Boys & Girls Club will serve up to 200 students per week at three sites during the summer months. Last summer, we had served 6 locations and this year we are striving for 12. If you, your business or service group want to help call us at (805) 238-4664.