Chatham-Kent Food Policy Council, in partnership with CK Public Health and Employment and Social Services, is inviting applications for the 2026 Gleaning Project Grant.
The initiative supports gleaning, the practice of collecting leftover fruits and vegetables from local farms that would otherwise go to waste. These foods are then redistributed to food banks, soup kitchens, community meal programs, and other local organizations, helping to reduce food waste and strengthen food security across Chatham-Kent.
The council is seeking a community agency to lead and expand the project in 2026. The ideal partner will be community-focused, passionate about reducing food waste and improving access to fresh food, and capable of coordinating volunteers for on-site gleaning activities with local farmers.
“Gleaning offers a practical, community-driven way to ensure more people in Chatham-Kent have consistent access to fresh, local food,” said Councillor Carmen McGregor, Chatham-Kent Food Policy Council Chair. “We are excited to partner with an agency that will continue to grow this impactful effort.”
The grant provides $25,000 in funding, with applications due by April 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. The selected agency will play a key role in reducing food waste and improving access to fresh, local food for residents across the municipality.
Apply, here.
