Would Mary have been as contrary if her garden grew and she did not have the strength, time, or ability to share its growth? Quite possibly – and also frustrated! That is where the help of others can benefit a homeowner and the community.

I am talking about a non-profit organization here in Edmonton called Operation Fruit Rescue Edmonton (OFRE). Established in 2009, OFRE has volunteers that rescue fruit grown in the city. Fruits rescued are shared with owners, pickers, and charitable organizations:

• 1/4 goes to the home owner.
• 1/4 goes to Edmonton’s Food Bank or other charitable organizations.
• 1/4 goes to the volunteer fruit pickers.
• 1/4 goes to OFRE for processing.

They also host picking, canning, and educational events throughout the year. You can sign up as a volunteer fruit grower or picker. If you like organizing and meeting people sign up as a neighbourhood fruit captain!

I love their motto: “We help Edmontonians take a bite out of locally grown food!”

If you have a tree that is sprouting some edible fruit but do not have the time or ability to pick or process it, get in touch with OFRE! Edmonton has an abundance of varied fruit that otherwise might just go to waste.

To contact and sign up you can visit their website: http://ofre.wordpress.com or email them at ofre.edmonton@gmail.com. You can also call and leave a message at: (780) 433-2235 (general inquiries only). And for all you Facebook users they can be found there as well.

Happy harvesting!

Ian is a resident of Boyle Street, a member of the Advisory Board for Services for Persons with Disabilities for the City of Edmonton, and the recipient of the Glenrose Award of Courage.