About the Program Backyard Bounty harvests the under-utilized produce growing in the Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and Santa Ynes Valley area for distribution to areas residents in need through the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County. Since the fall of 2007, the Backyard Bounty Program has collected almost 350,000 pounds of fresh produce that would have otherwise gone to waste.
We offer a collection service for those who pick their own produce or harvesting services if your trees are many and large. Please consider donating the extra food growing in your backyard and become one of our member farms that contribute to the health of our community. We are fully insured and all donations qualify for a tax deduction.
As a volunteer based program, we are always looking for those eager to help. We offer volunteer opportunities for individuals, school groups, clubs, organizations and businesses as a way to be in service to the community. _________________________________________________
Recent News
Sept 11
Backyard Bounty joined forces with Food Forward from the LA area, and embarked on its largest harvest to date, with 65 volunteers picking over 18,000 lbs of oranges in 6 hours. Thanks to Sun Coast Equipment, Via Vai, Pierre Lafonds, Sams to Go, Matilija Water, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf for the donated gear and nourishment and Mark Alchiati for the entertainment.
Oct 23
To celebrate the program's three year anniversary, the Foodbank hosted a Backyard Bounty Day. Community members joined forces to harvest thousands of pounds of oranges for those in need.
(Pictured - Unitarian Church Youth Group harvested 1756 pounds of oranges)
As part of your garden this year, we encourage you to 'Plant A Row For The Hungry'. Plant A Row is a nationwide initiative intended to connect home gardeners with extra produce and a means of distribution to those in need
For more information, please contact:
Doug Hagensen, Program Manager doug@foodbanksbc.org 805.284.5407
To become a Foodbank Volunteer for this program, please visit our volunteer page.
Backyard Bounty needs volunteers to harvest, serve as a harvest leaders, help with administrative assistance and canvass neighborhoods and spread the word.
Time: Harvests take place weekday mornings as well as occasional evenings and Saturdays.
All ages between 7 (with parental supervision) and 77 are welcome as there is always something to do that fits your abilities. Please wear long sleeves and close-toed shoes. Bring a hat/ sun block/ water/ snacks/ glasses.
About the Program 
As a volunteer based program, we are always looking for those eager to help. We offer volunteer opportunities for individuals, school groups, clubs, organizations and businesses as a way to be in service to the community.
