Iskashitaa's harvesters are an inter-generational group of refugees from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East who partner with local Tucson volunteers to harvest approximately 75,000 lbs. of fruits and vegetables each year from backyards and local farms (Buckelew Farms, Native Seeds/SEARCH, and Andy’s Pumpkin Patch). These nutritious foods are then redistributed to refugee families from many countries and other Tucson organizations that assist families in need. Find out what we are gleaning now.

How it works: Volunteers invite the community to donate excess fruit by handing out flyers in neighborhoods and at events. 

• The Fruit Donor emails Iskashitaa and provides information on their trees, address, telephone number, and stipulations (locked gate, owner wants be home, dogs).
• The Harvesting Coordinator calls the home owner to decide on an approximate time for pick up. (Please be flexible with this time. There are many variables involved.)
• A team of volunteers are set up
• Equipment is picked up from Iskashitaa's office.
• Harvesters pick up produce and redistribute it. Volunteers should remember to bring water, snacks, coats or sunscreen, if necessary.
• Volunteers preserve excess produce by canning, cooking, and drying larger quantities.

Looking to help out with the harvest? Here are some ways you can:

• Spread the word by printing out flyers and passing them around your neighborhood. Download Flyer
• Volunteer to help harvest fruit.
• Donate your backyard fruit to Iskashitaa.
• Help us redistribute fruit to local families.
• Get a group together and run your own collection!

Ready to get involved in feeding families?

Contact Us!