Toledo Food Bank Sought Garden Produce Donations

The Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank is accepting surplus fresh produce to help feed local families in need.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a wooden crate overflowing with harvested squash, potatoes, and peppers, representing local food bank donations. — The Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank is accepting surplus fresh garden produce to help support 150 partner agencies serving Northwest Ohio families. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you donate your surplus garden produce to a local food bank?

The Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank has invited residents to donate their surplus garden produce. The organization works to provide fresh, nutritious food to families throughout its eight-county service area.

Why it matters

Donations of fresh garden items help the food bank maintain its supply of nutritious food for families in need. The initiative supports a wider network of 150 partner agencies serving Northwest Ohio.

The food bank has already distributed more than 650,000 pounds of fresh produce this year to its 150 member agency partners. The organization serves a broad region spanning eight counties across Northwest Ohio.

The players

Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank

This organization operates as a central hub for food distribution and hunger relief efforts across an eight-county area in Northwest Ohio.

The details

Residents can bring clean, non-refrigerated produce such as potatoes, onions, squash, apples, and peppers to the facility located at 24 E. Woodruff Ave. To ensure the items are suitable for distribution, the food bank requests that all donations are clean and presented in boxes or clean containers.

Donations are accepted Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The 650,000 pounds of produce were distributed during 2026.

Market Landscape

This initiative aligns with the broader move among regional food banks to prioritize fresh agricultural products over traditional shelf-stable items. By leveraging local garden surpluses, the food bank strengthens its supply chain against the volatility of national food distribution networks.

Residents can contribute to local food security by dropping off their excess harvest during standard weekday business hours. Proper preparation of donated items, such as ensuring they are clean and boxed, helps staff manage the intake process more efficiently.

The takeaway

Donating surplus produce is an effective way for community members to reduce food waste while supporting local nutritional programs. Ensure all donated fruits and vegetables are clean and ready for consumption before visiting the Woodruff Avenue facility.