Spokane Volunteers Harvest Two Tons of Apples

The Spokane Edible Tree Project gathered surplus fruit to support local food-insecure residents.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Organic Food

Screen-print poster illustration of a wooden crate overflowing with crisp apples, evoking a warm, community-focused harvest initiative. — Spokane volunteers successfully gathered two tons of surplus Golden Delicious apples from Hidden Acres Orchards to supply local food pantries this week. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe local volunteer gleaning projects are an effective way to address food insecurity?

Volunteers recently harvested two tons of Golden Delicious apples from Hidden Acres Orchards in Green Bluff. The produce will be distributed to local food pantries and housing sites.

Why it matters

The effort aims to prevent local food waste while providing fresh produce to food-insecure individuals in the area. This initiative connects agricultural surplus directly with community nutritional needs.

The Spokane Edible Tree Project harvested 2 tons of apples from Hidden Acres Orchards, which grows more than 30 apple varieties. This fruit is destined for 25 local housing sites and food pantries.

The players

Spokane Edible Tree Project

This organization has worked to reduce food waste and support local nutrition since 2013.

Hidden Acres Orchards

Located in Green Bluff, this farm cultivates over 30 different varieties of apples.

Catholic Charities Eastern Washington

This agency manages the distribution of food resources to 25 housing sites and pantries throughout the region.

The details

Volunteers used ladders to pick the fruit, carefully inspecting each apple for holes or bruises caused by codling moths to ensure quality. The harvest took place following the conclusion of the orchard's public u-pick season.

The Spokane Edible Tree Project has operated since 2013.
Hidden Acres Orchards ended its u-pick season on October 24, 2026.
Volunteers conducted the apple harvest on October 25, 2026.

Culture Shift

This harvest aligns with the USDA's gleaning and food recovery program guidelines, emphasizing the trend of turning agricultural surplus into community resources. It marks a shift toward localized food sustainability that minimizes waste through volunteer-led infrastructure.

Residents in need will receive fresh fruit through 25 supported housing sites and food pantries. The project ensures that local produce remains within the community rather than being discarded after the commercial harvest season ends.

The takeaway

Gleaning programs offer a practical way to support neighbors by capturing produce that would otherwise go to waste. Community members can assist by volunteering for future seasonal harvests to expand local resource access.