On Saturday, September 20th we will be meeting at New Hope Presbyterian Church at 6:50 am and then be traveling to several farms to participate in our annual gleaning project. 

Gleaning is when farmers allow people to pick their "left-over" crops for free, usually in an effort to give to local food banks or people in need.  Last year, we worked in a pepper field and then in an eggplant field.  There is no way of telling in advance which fields we will end up at but you can bet that there will be plenty of work to be done.

What you need to know to participate:

* RSVP - please email Trish or call her at 303.818.7890 to let her know how many people will be participating in your family.

* Please arrive at New Hope on time and prepared to drive you and/or your family.

* Please dress appropriately.  We will be working in a field so wear good shoes (no flip flops), bring a set of gloves for each participant and layer your clothes.

* Pack a sack lunch for your family.  We leave early and may not return until 2-3pm.  The time it takes to get home is all dependent on the time it takes to glean the crops and that is all dependent on how many volunteers we get.  The more volunteers, the quicker the finish.  We follow Compa Food Bank's lead and they tell us when they have enough for their food bank.

* Children of all ages are welcome to participate.  Keep in mind that the younger ones (under 5) may tire by mid morning.  Take breaks and please feel free to let us know when your children tire out.

This is a partnered mission with Children's Ministries and they will be studying Ruth prior to this mission trip.  We encourage families to talk about Ruth and her gleaning efforts as a way of making this experience even more meaningful!