For over 30 years, Senior Gleaners of San Diego County has quietly made a massive impact gathering surplus fruit and rescuing unsold groceries to help feed those in need across the region. With over 7 million pounds of food donated to date, this local nonprofit is a leader in reducing waste and supporting hunger relief efforts.
Their model is simple, effective, and community-powered: volunteers (primarily age 55+) gather surplus fruit, along with unsold groceries, delivering everything to local food pantries the same day. In 2023 alone, they donated over 362,000 pounds of fresh food to more than 75 organizations across San Diego. Not only does their work fight food waste and hunger, it helps seniors stay active, connected, and committed to community well-being.
Whether you’re a homeowner with extra fruit to share or someone looking to give back in retirement, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
How You Can Help
Have Fruit Trees? Donate Your Produce
If you have surplus fruit, Senior Gleaners can send a volunteer crew to pick and clean up, or you can drop it off at one of participating food distribution sites. All produce is delivered the same day to a local food pantry, and you’ll receive a tax-deductible receipt at the end of the year based on the value of what’s collected.
Volunteer to Pick or Drive (ages 55+)
Fruit-picking crews are busiest from January through June, with some scheduling outings two to three mornings a week during peak season. Typical shifts last 3-4 hours and there a no minimum hours required. Grocery crews work year-round on a set schedule, collecting donations from local markets and delivering them to partner agencies. No experience is required, and training is provided.
Serve on the Board (all ages welcome)
Board members of any age are welcome, especially those with nonprofit or fundraising experience. Meetings occur quarterly and average just 3–5 hours of involvement per quarter.
Give Financially or Donate a Vehicle
Senior Gleaners is a Gold-level charity with transparent financials. You can support their mission through tax-deductible donations, Donor-Advised Funds, or by donating an old vehicle.
Form a Mini-Crew or Drop Off Yourself
Prefer to work on your own time? Form a mini-crew with friends or family, or drop off your fruit at one of 75 local food distribution sites throughout the county.
Learn about the financial benefits of charitable giving
Senior Gleaners offers a unique way to give back empowering older adults to stay active and purposeful while reducing food waste and helping feed local families. While they always welcome new vonteers across San Diego County, Senior Gleaners are especially looking for new volunteers in South Bay.
Learn more and get involved at seniorgleanerssdco.org
