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.

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.


Sixty-Seven percent (67%) of Milwaukee residents do not consume the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables daily.

Milwaukee Health Department 2013 - Center for Urban Population Health


PRODUCE DONATIONs 

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!

  160 lbs of poblano                  peppers

  160 lbs of poblano                  peppers

      240 lbs of corn

      240 lbs of corn

   100 lbs of tomatoes

   100 lbs of tomatoes

     140 lbs of onions

     140 lbs of onions

  80 lbs of green beans

  80 lbs of green beans

 160 lbs. bell peppers

 160 lbs. bell peppers

100 lbs of watermelon

100 lbs of watermelon

       160 lbs of pears

       160 lbs of pears

        400 lbs of apples

        400 lbs of apples

260 lbs of squash

260 lbs of squash

  180 lbs of cabbage

  180 lbs of cabbage

   20 lbs of asparagus

   20 lbs of asparagus


“I learned quite a lot about food preservation from the project – specifically, canning and freezing.”

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