When times are tough for people around the world, the Gleaners go into action.
Gleaners is made up of Christian volunteers who gather, process and package produce donated by many local farmers. That produce is then processed at two plants, one in Oliver and one in Lavington.
“Our purpose is to gather (glean) crops that are damaged or left in the fields and that would otherwise go to waste,” said Howie Anhorn, with the Gleaners. “The product is dried and made into a soup mix that is shipped by various relief organizations around the world to starving people.”
Gleaners also collects used medical equipment, which is shipped by relief organizations to various parts of the world. And every year, thousands of packages of seeds are donated by PNW Seeds to Gleaners, which this year sent them to North Korea with the soup.
And at this time of year, the Gleaners run an annual campaign to collect new socks, mittens, toques and under garments for kids of all ages.
“These are shipped with the food or separately to Third World countries,” said Anhorn. “This year they will go to Eastern Europe. Many people enjoy knitting these items or you can purchase them new.”
There are collection barrels in most churches, at The Schubert Centre and at The Gleaners furniture store. Last day for the 18th annual sock drive is Dec. 1.
“Last year, the Okanagan valley collected 22,000 pieces. Your donations are greatly appreciated.”
Lou Abram, a member of Grace Bible Church, has a number of people helping year-round by knitting toques and hats: so far, she has collected 1,600 toques and other warm items from her church, as well as another 1,000 from members of the community. She still needs wool to keep them busy — if you can help, please call her at 250-545-1294.
To help with the costs to run the processing plant, the Gleaners opened a used furniture store at 4405-29th St. Donations of used furniture are always welcome and pick-up is available.
As well, volunteers are always needed at the store. If you can volunteer a few hours, please call 250-549-1123.
“This store, and other donations, is the only means of support for the food processing plant,” said Anhorn.
Volunteers are also needed at the plant every week, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. If you can help here, please call the plant at 250-558-5872 for directions.
For more information on the Gleaners, please call Anhorn at 250-549-1632.
