The New Orleans Fruit Tree Project

To further fulfill its mission to increase access to fresh, local produce by underserved populations in New Orleans, Hollygrove Market & Farm is pleased to announce the creation of The New Orleans Fruit Tree Project. This program will allow for city-wide harvesting of local fruit trees and edible plants from community space and private residential property by volunteers recruited and supervised by HM&F staff. Harvested produce will be donated to local food pantries, homeless shelters and families in need. Second Harvest Food Bank in New Orleans will serve as the conduit for donated produce so that it reaches those in need most effectively and efficiently.  

Registering your Tree or Garden

 The city of New Orleans is blessed with a growing climate that allows for almost year round harvesting of fruits, citrus, nuts and vegetables. Many residents who have fruit-bearing trees may not have intentionally planted them and do not have the time, desire or materials to harvest what is on their property. Unfortunately this results in thousands of pounds of fresh produce going to waste in New Orleans every year. The New Orleans Fruit Tree Project would utilize this produce so that it reaches those most in need of fresh, healthy foods.

But we need your help! If you own a fruit-bearing tree and do not have the time, energy or materials to do it we encourage you to register your tree here, schedule a harvest date and make a difference to someone affected by hunger in New Orleans. Tree owners are welcome to participate or sit back and watch. Either way The New Orleans Fruit Tree Project will be grateful for your donation. Tree owners will recieve a small portion of the harvest to keep or may choose to donate.

Volunteering with The New Orleans Fruit Tree Project

Even if you do not own a fruit bearing tree we still need your help! Volunteers are an essential part of The New Orleans Fruit Tree Project. Prior to harvesting, volunteers will receive free training on proper harvesting techniques. Volunteers will also receive a small portion of the harvest to take home, if they so choose.

Please register your tree or garden here and a staff person from Hollygrove Market & Farm will contact you with more information. If you have any questions or are interested in volunteering please email Megan Nuismer at megan@hollygrovemarket.com