Harvesting

A backyard fruit tree usually produces far more fruit than a household can use themselves -- but the fruit is often wonderful to eat and use.  Here are some ways you can make the best use of your abundance:

• If you have a modest amount of fruit (a few boxes worth), and are physically capable of picking it, we encourage you to harvest and deliver your fruit directly to one of the many Community Dropoff Locations.  Many people will benefit, and most organizations can provide a charitable contribution tax receipt for your donation.
• If you have a larger amount of fruit, or are physically unable to harvest it because of age or disability, Village Harvest organizes teams of volunteers to harvest and share with community organizations.  See the information below.
• Make good use of your own fruit!  In addition to eating fresh fruit (and giving some to friends and neighbors), consider preserving ... our Resources section can help get you started, and we have occasional preserving events as well.

See our Harvesting FAQs for common questions on "how to" and our harvesting service.

Volunteer Harvesting Assistance

In conjunction with community groups and other organizations, Village Harvest organizes volunteer harvesting teams to pick fruit and distribute it to worthwhile community organizations.  Because of high demand, this service is available only for homes and small orchards with more than 150 lbs of fruit (several boxes).  For smaller quantities, see Community Dropoff Locations.

Donors will receive a charitable contribution tax receipt.  There is no charge for this service, although we appreciate and rely upon public support.  Please visit our support page to see how you can help.

Communities Currently Being Served:

• Cities Harvested Monthly:  Willow Glen (San Jose), Mountain View / Los Altos.
• Cities harvested once per Season:  Cambrian, Campbell (central San Jose area), Saratoga, West San Jose, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Berkeley.

Signing Up:

If you're interested and qualified, please send an email or leave a telephone message with the following information:

• Name, address, phone number(s), email address
• Type, number, and size of trees
• When the fruit will be ripe, if known

A volunteer from Village Harvest will contact you when teams are being scheduled for your area.