DOWNEAST GLEANING INITIATIVE
Member of Maine Gleaning Network
Through the Downeast Gleaning Initiative, Healthy Acadia, in partnership with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, works to address food insecurity in the Downeast region. We coordinate gleaning opportunities throughout Hancock and Washington counties, connecting volunteers with farms, gardens, orchards, and farmers’ markets to collect food that would otherwise go to waste. We then manage distribution of the collected food to food pantries, community meal sites, and other food assistance programs.
Since 2013, the Downeast Gleaning Initiative has redistributed over 186,000 tons of fresh produce throughout Hancock and Washington counties. Each year we partner with more than 50 food producers and engage hundreds of volunteers. As a founding member of the Maine Gleaning Network, our efforts have contributed to statewide appreciation and adoption of gleaning as a strategy towards improving healthy food access. Learn more on our website here or follow the Downeast Gleaning Initiative on Instagram!
CONTACT US:
Washington County Gleaning Initiative
Regina Grabrovac
Hancock County Gleaning Initiative
Rachel Emus
