Fresh Produce Preservation Project

The Fresh Produce Preservation Project (FPPP), begun in 2010, complements the Gathering’s mission to feed the hungry with respect and dignity. This seasonal project (August - November) collects donations of fresh fruits and vegetables from area farmers and other food sources. The produce is preserved by canning or freezing for use in Gathering winter meals when fresh produce is not as available. By increasing the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables in our meals, we increase the nutritional value and food options available to our guests.

Sixty-Seven percent of Milwaukee residents do not consume the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables daily.

““The FPPP provided a fun and safe environment to volunteer! It was very welcoming.”

“I learned quite a lot about food preservation from the project – specifically, canning and freezing.”
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Questions? Contact us! soulfood@thegatheringwis.org or call (414) 272-4122

Are you a farmer or organization interested in donating fresh produce to The Gathering?

Please call our office at (414) 272-4122 or email soulfood@thegathering.org. If you would like to volunteer with the FPPP check out our Volunteer page or call our office at the above phone number.

TOTAL PRODUCE DONATIONS FOR 2023

Thanks to donations from local farms and the hard work of our FPPP volunteers, we were able to process and preserve a literal ton of fresh produce for our Gathering meals!