Farms Combat Hunger in New Hampshire with Urgent Gleaning Efforts

UPDATE: In a powerful effort to combat food waste and hunger, Roots in Reverie Farm in Lee, New Hampshire is partnering with the NH Gleans program to redirect surplus crops to families in need. This initiative comes as food insecurity continues to rise across the region, with local nonprofits like Gather stepping up to address the urgent demand.

The NH Gleans program is designed to rescue excess harvests from local farms, ensuring that perfectly good food does not end up in landfills. Allison Bussiere, food systems coordinator at Gather, explains, “We are diverting food from being wasted by getting surplus harvest from local growers and producers.” The program has launched six initiatives statewide, with a significant focus on serving those facing food insecurity.

Currently, Gather reports an alarming increase in demand, now serving an average of 150 families daily, compared to just 65 families three months ago. Anne Hayes, executive director of Gather, emphasizes the critical nature of this uptick, stating, “We are seeing about an average of 150 families coming into the space every day looking for food.”

The gleaned produce, often deemed unfit for market due to cosmetic flaws, is still “110% edible,” according to Josh Andrews, farm manager at Roots in Reverie. He highlights that these “funky bunch, the misfits” still provide high-quality nutrition. Volunteers play a crucial role, either helping to harvest crops directly from the farms or receiving donations from farmers.

This collaborative effort not only feeds hungry families but also helps reduce food waste significantly. The gleaned crops are washed and either distributed through local food pantries or transformed into pre-made meals for those in need.

Gather’s new facility, opened in October 2023, has doubled the number of households served daily, showcasing the urgent need for more access to food resources in the community. Bussiere calls the initiative a “win-win,” as it saves food from landfills while simultaneously providing nourishment to those who need it most.

As the NH Gleans program continues to expand, local farms like Roots in Reverie remain committed to ensuring no food goes to waste. The community’s response has been heartening, but the ongoing demand highlights the need for sustained support and awareness surrounding food insecurity in New Hampshire.

Stay informed on this developing story as efforts to combat hunger and food waste evolve. The focus remains on maximizing resources to serve the community better and ensure that every family has access to healthy, nutritious food.