Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my contact information changes?

If you need to update your volunteer application, go to the Volunteer page and click on 'Check your Status'.

Why won't the signup page let me on the roster?

The glean may be at volunteer capacity. To get on a wait-list, contact Allison at gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org or (360) 352-8597 x111.

I forgot to write down the glean address!

The email you receive after you sign up includes a link to information about the glean, including the address. If you have signed up for the glean but have lost this email, go to the Volunteers website and click on the gleaning event for more information, including directions. You are also welcome to contact Allison at gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org.

Does TCFB provide transportation to gleans?

During non-COVID-times, the Thurston County Food Bank has a Gleaning van which we use for transportation to gleaning sites and for loading the harvest. We promote car pooling for gleans; if you are interested, the Gleaning Coordinator and volunteers will meet at the Warehouse Distribution Center (2260 Mottman Rd. SW, in Tumwater) to load the van before departing for a glean. Please communicate with the coordinator to participate.

Who can I contact with Questions that are gleaning and event specific?

Allison Zusi is the Gleaning Coordinator at the Thurston County Food Bank. Her contact information is gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org or 360-352-8597 x111

How are gleans planned?

Glean leaders meet with crop owners pre-season to scout the property and discuss glean logistics. The size of the roster is determined by the amount of produce, parking space, and farm activities we need to work around. Our goal is to accommodate as many people as possible while not impacting our local farmers' operations! We are indebted to property owners and commercial growers who share our mission.

Commercial growers are able to donate for a variety of reasons. Sometimes produce is left over because it wasn't sold, wasn't ripe at the time of harvest, or isn't visually suitable for market, but still of good quality. We sometimes have very little notice to plan a glean.

Because of the rich history of gleaning in Thurston County, most of our gleans are with farms we regularly visit.

Can I bring my kids?

We encourage parents to bring their children, but please be aware that some gleans will be more suitable for kids than others (for example, some require the use of harvesting knives). We believe that picking with TCFB Gleaning is a valuable educational experience and a fabulous opportunity for young folks to give back to the community!

Please inform Allison prior to the glean that you will be bringing your children.

What tools and equipment will be provided?

The TCFB Gleaning Program provides (some) gloves, masks, and hand tools to aid in harvesting and prepping vegetables. If possible, it's helpful to bring some of your own gear like gloves or a preferred COVID mask.