Applications are now open for a grant program aimed at improving food access and reducing waste.
The Chatham-Kent Food Policy Council, in partnership with CK Public Health and Employment and Social Services, is seeking a community agency to lead and expand the 2026 Gleaning Project.
“Gleaning offers a practical, community-driven way to ensure more people in Chatham-Kent have consistent access to fresh, local food,” said Carmen McGregor, CK councillor and Chatham-Kent Food Policy Council Chair, in a news release. “We are excited to partner with an agency that will continue to grow this impactful effort.”
The program collects leftover fruits and vegetables from local farms after the main harvest — food that is perfectly good to eat but would otherwise go to waste. That food is then redistributed to food banks, soup kitchens, community meal programs, and other local organizations.
Up to $25,000 has been made available for the program, which will include working with local farmers while coordinating volunteers for on-site gleaning activities.
Community agencies interested in the program can apply online by clicking here. The application deadline is April 1 at 11:59 p.m.
